Commentary: Message to Trump, Newsom and Faulconer: ‘Please release us from the coronavirus oppression’ – The San Diego Union-Tribune

I wake in disbelief. I cannot leave my house except for essential items because I could spread or catch coronavirus. I have limited ability to conduct business or recreational activities. Anti-lockdown rally organizers may face criminal charges.

To me, these are freedom of speech and gathering issues. Prisoners are being set free even though prisoners are always susceptible to diseases while in prison. I must be dreaming or am I living in the Middle Ages? How can this be happening in the 21st century? It is hard to believe this is my country, the United States of America, where freedom was so freely given to each citizen, until now.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has made many American citizens worried and anxious beyond what any of us have ever known, and some were already concerned. Constant coverage in nearly every media outlet coupled with the political response has led many to near hysteria in this country. Stay at home, wash your hands and practice social distancing are key phrases.

Please do not let me hear another politician or doctor tell me to wash my hands. I learned this basic life survival skill from my parents and during my grade school education when I was a child. I have adhered to this basic principle long before this pandemic crisis to keep myself healthy through my first 65 years of life.

Why is government imposing stringent restrictions upon the citizens of this country? Let us step back and look at the facts in their entirety to gain a different perspective, and you may see another path to freedom.

As of this week, more than 80,000 Americans have died of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Looking at the total population in the United States, this equates to a death rate of less than 0.025% and the death rate in San Diego County where I live is about 0.005%. Early 2020 has not brought a significant increase in the number of deaths in San Diego County compared to recent years.

Read more about coronavirus restrictions and protests in San Diego County:

Many coronavirus victims have had no or mild symptoms, although data on this is limited so far. Over 75% of the deaths are from Americans aged 65 or older. Why not let those at risk for death (elderly, immunocompromised people, etc.) decide to isolate themselves? Why continue to quarantine everyone when the few are at greatest risk?

The national debt is $25 trillion and climbing, with nearly 40% of the federal budget spent on Medicare and Social Security. While older Americans have paid into the system, they have not paid enough to cover the bill. Federal spending on Americans 65 and older is estimated to be seven times what is spent on those 18 and younger. Will older people pay their fair share to help?

Unfortunately, we all know the answer to this question, and sadly it is no. We leave our young people burdened with a great financial deficit to resolve. The biggest con job in the history of the world is taking place right before our eyes.

Now, look at the coronavirus crisis, we ask the young to stay home, impinging on their basic freedom. These are the young, the strong, the future, and we are taking their freedom away. Notwithstanding the seriousness of the coronavirus crisis, the young and healthy should be allowed to get out and earn, to go to school and to help our country begin to recover.

There is no question we need to protect those groups most vulnerable who may succumb to the virus; however, a lack of common sense and a high level of reactivity has been applied to this situation. Besides a loss of freedom, we are experiencing new highs in unemployment, economic turmoil and general instability in society.

Coping with coronavirus

The pandemic sweeping the globe has changed everyones lives, and we want to hear how its changed yours. If youd like to write an op-ed for us on a subject related to the virus, make it 700-750 words and send it to us with your name and a phone number so we can reach you.

Is America spending the large U.S. government relief money about $3 trillion in a reasonable manner? No. Heres an example: My 101-year-old mother died in January. Guess who received a $1,200 stimulus check deposit from Uncle Sam? My mom. However, I predict my small business will have a 75% income loss in 2020. Will I receive any compensation for my losses? No. Any loan does not erase the losses.

Its time for President Donald Trump, Gov. Gavin Newsom, the county supervisors and Mayor Kevin Faulconer to wake up. Please release us from the coronavirus oppression. The numbers supporting the lockdowns of freedom in America, California and San Diego County do not match the risk. Lift the restrictions. If you want to stay home or be in isolation during the coronavirus crisis, go for it.

Let people choose their own path. Let freedom ring again in America.

Stiglich owns an engineering consulting company and lives in Fallbrook.

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Commentary: Message to Trump, Newsom and Faulconer: 'Please release us from the coronavirus oppression' - The San Diego Union-Tribune