Letter: Flake should think twice about Sessions

Jeff Flake, by openly supporting Jeff Sessions for attorney general, is sending a clear message (My Turn: "Can we trust Jeff Sessions to defend everyone?"). He is telling marginalized groups of Americans that they are unwelcome in this country.

Senator Flake is openly supporting a man who has attacked the liberties and freedoms of many Americans who are part of marginalized groups. Jeff Flake should tread carefully in supporting fringe candidates and policy put forth by either the president-elect or the extremist Congress.

Maricopa County has rejected this type of extremism by ousting Sheriff Joe Arpaio. Maricopa County makes up two-thirds of the voting population in this state; it is clear that a significant portion of the constituency rejects this extremism.

Arizona has a strong libertarian streak. Civil libertarians see this extremism for what it is, an assault on all of our freedoms and liberties. Civil libertarians understand that an attack against one person's or group’s freedom is an attack on all our freedoms and liberties.

Jeff Flake should think long and hard about his support for Jeff Sessions. Arpaio after decades in power is out; Senator Flake can meet the same political fate if he chooses.

— James Hodgkins, Phoenix