The hatred expressed toward President Donald Trump, displayed so viciously by so many pundits, leftists and the media, is very alarming. It is shameful, and it is very divisive.

President Trump, himself, has provided many reasons to dislike him. Dislike is one thing, but vicious hate and assassination talk are quite another.

It all started with his “illegitimate” election. Then his anti-establishment agenda and his America-first attitude fueled the anger of his antagonists.

The latest mistake was pardoning Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Arizona, who was convicted of contempt of court. The pardon was not a good idea, but some of the Sunday morning know-it-alls went apocalyptic.

Trump is said to have rewarded his friend, who supported him; others are saying he broke the law and hundreds of years of tradition. Not true. I am sure those know-it-alls did not go apocalyptic when then-President Bill Clinton pardoned Mark Rich — a felon hiding overseas who, along with his wife, were huge campaign donors for Clinton.

It is very frustrating to witness this hatred play out with no idea how to change it. Perhaps honest reflection by some people would help.

Some of the nation’s political leaders could help — if they could summon the courage. And President Trump could step up and tell the public what he can and will do to reduce the cause for these divisive attacks. Reducing the tweeting would be a good start.

America should not have to endure the hatred against the president.

George Jones, Otisfield