We’re flattered.
Out of the thousands of newspapers in this country, alleged pipe bomber Luke J. Helder picked The Badger Herald to receive his Unabomber-esque diatribe against the government. We would like to think he recognized our reputation as a forum for all ideas, but the fact he went to UW-Stout certainly had more to do with his choice.
Regardless, Helder’s rampage across the country this past weekend has been a chilling reminder that terrorism is not limited to Afghanistan or some other far-away country. It is essential condemnation of terrorism extend home as well.
The fact Helder is a 21-year-old college student does not make attacking civilians any less despicable. We urge the federal government to prosecute Helder to the full extent of the law — terrorism is unacceptable no matter who carries it out.