For centuries the contest among nations for prominence in the Pacific has had its cold and hot periods.

Even Spain had intentions on the region, reaching north from New Spain to Alta California but could not follow through.

Japan and Russia had a go but were turned back. The Americans have extended their power and influence with bases in the Philippines and Japan. Now a rising China is contesting US power.

America as a nation in decline. Debasing its paper currency and burning its cities may force it to pull back.

China will fill the void by taking back Tai wan as it did during the Ching dynasty. Will the US really wage a hot war over Taiwan? My question is this: What will the USA do

My question is this: What will the USA do in the Pacific if it has a new and even more progressive, inward looking administration to check Chinese expansion? Will it re-join the Paris Climate Accords,

Will it re-join the Paris Climate Accords, crawl back to Iran,and plead for its forgiveness? Answer -- essentially nothing.

John Huffman, Springdale • Thank you for keeping my newspaper

Thank you for keeping my newspaper coming. I was able to get my neighbors a subscription and they really enjoy it.

Teresa Hoefer, Swansea