I am disappointed to see that leading Republicans, including the governor, are supporting Waterville Mayor Nick Isgro’s right to say “Eat it, Hogg” on Twitter to David Hogg, a student who survived the school shooting in Florida.

The First Amendment (freedom of speech) is in the Bill of Rights to allow people to express their views without fear of censorship or harm by the government. It also, unfortunately, gives people the right to say ignorant and hateful things. Mr. Isgro’s remarks added nothing to the discussion of what to do to prevent school shootings. They were just mean-spirited.

It is important to remember that with rights come responsibilities. Our leaders should know better.

Neil Korsen

North Yarmouth