To the editor:

Senator Merkley’s comments in his recent column “I see our responsibility and mission as legislators — and the core purpose of our Constitution — as ensuring children have safe spaces, full bellies, and good health” is not in accord with any of the articles in the U.S. Constitution. It’s not even in accord with the Bill of Rights. Safe spaces, full bellies, and good health are the sole responsibility of the parents, the extended family, perhaps the church, or local charities, or maybe county governments. But Congress has not been authorized by the people with this duty or concern.