And now, our esteemed mayor, Bill de Blasio, is running for president of the United States! 

The article “Civics Education” [Learning Curve column, June 6], mistakenly refers to “American democracy.” Of course, the United States was founded as a constitutional republic, not as a democracy. 

I’m one of those who went out on strike and lost two days’ pay for each day on strike. However, I took my entire department out with me, including a nonmember of the union. I have fond memories of that woman and that strike. 

I could not help but consider the ramifications of life without a union when reading the President’s Perspective column. 

I gave support to the Denver teachers in their strike: I walked the line and attended the rally at the capitol. Our support was appreciated. 

Every argument UFT President Michael Mulgrew used to illustrate how charter schools “drain the lifeblood from public schools” was valid and accurate [President’s Perspective, May 2]. That is why I am puzzled by the UFT’s organizing efforts in New York City charter schools.