LETTER: In defense of President Trump and pragmatic leadership

In response to the Tuesday letter from Kathleen Range criticizing President Donald Trump: As a proud Trump supporter, I believe he consistently puts the best interests of the United States and its citizens first.

Too many people underestimate Mr. Trump’s intelligence. His track record as a successful businessman, his ability to negotiate complex deals and his sharp instincts allow him to navigate challenging political and economic landscapes effectively. Intelligence in leadership isn’t always about academic credentials — it’s about results, strategic thinking and getting things done.

Additionally, oil and cattle are commodities traded on global markets. Their prices are determined by worldwide supply and demand, influenced by factors such as production, weather, geopolitics and inventories. No president, including Mr. Trump, “sets” these prices. What a president can do is pursue policies that increase domestic production, reduce regulatory burdens and support U.S. farmers and ranchers through better trade deals and fewer obstacles. Mr. Trump’s approach has aimed to strengthen our economy from within.

Voters elected President Trump because they want pragmatic leadership focused on prosperity, strength and common sense. Criticisms that ignore these realities do little to advance productive dialogue.