Author: Jill Lawrence, USA TODAY

America has suffered terrible losses in the COVID pandemic, but a State of the Union dwelling on pain would be a disservice. It’s time for tough love.

The idea of Ukraine taking on Russia by itself is terrifying. The US is sending equipment and weapons. But lives will still be lost. On both sides.

At least Democrats are reality based. Trump, his devotees and way too much of the Republican Party are from Area 51 or some other planet entirely.

While Democrats haggle over policy, Republicans in thrall to Trump are acting out a meaner, more dangerous version of World Wrestling Entertainment.

In an ideal world, Roe v. Wade would endure, the nation would unite to fight COVID, and Congress would have acted long ago to prevent gun tragedies.

I work hard to avoid the dark, enraged side of social media. But I know others thrive there and have planned dangerous actions like the Capitol riot.

Stefanik wants Cuomo arrested but she defends Trump, target of many sexual misconduct claims and inciter of our first nonpeaceful transfer of power.

We can only hope that truth, facts, personal testimonies and violent video will lift the scales from American eyes and put the nation on a better path.

The Senate will break your heart and imperil your democracy. A 1/6 Commission is only the first failure-by-filibuster we’re likely to see.