It’s one thing to disagree on policies, personalities, or politics. That’s part of democracy. But using the word “retarded” to insult someone is reprehensible and far beneath the standard of a leader.

I grew up with an uncle who is mentally disabled. In our family, Grandma Narvaez made it clear the R-word was never acceptable. If one of us kids said it, she corrected us immediately — sometimes with a swift smack from her stick. We learned respect, and we learned it fast. That lesson has carried through generations: we don’t say that word, and we treat our family member with dignity.

It’s disappointing that the presidency has sunk to such a low level that crude name-calling now passes for political discussion.

Meanwhile, funding for mental health services continues to be cut — a bitter i

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