Finally I know what to call myself: the estranged. Diane Hessan (“Caught in the crossfire,’’ Opinion, March 24) has captured my position perfectly. I have not known how to reconcile the myriad emotions I have been managing since the election, but she explained it well. While I am generally the most optimistic person in the room, even I cannot muster enthusiasm for anything that is occurring in our federal government these days. Our president is a narcissist who seems to believe his personality (!) should be enough to convince longtime lawmakers of the wisdom of his policies. And the Democrats have become loud and redundant beyond hope. Election cycles, like spring, often bring a sense of renewal and fresh ideas. This year, not so much.

Tracey Hughes

Boston