Readers respond to Post articles and commentary.

Regarding the Jan. 1 front-page article “ICE plans $100 million push to hire thousands”:

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Patrol are the two primary agencies tasked with fulfilling the federal government’s responsibility to secure the nation’s borders and enforce its immigration laws. The work that both agencies do is vitally important, and it is done, in large measure, by dedicated professionals.

However, it is concerning that ICE’s recruitment plan now specifically targets people who listen to conservative radio shows and country music, as well as people who have attended UFC fights, or shown an interest in guns and tactical gear.

During my 25 years as a police chief, I implored human resources to be strategic with the recruitment budget to target the best candidates who had an interest in serving their community as a police officer.

Every law enforcement agency should be seeking candidates with traits and talents that make a good cop, including integrity and the ability to communicate effectively with anyone in any circumstance. Courage, intelligence, compassion and cooperation are other important traits to determine suitability for law enforcement work.

Political leanings, music preferences and enjoying a good fight are irrelevant.