To the editor:

I believe Americans need to take steps to address the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The White House response has been unacceptable. I urge Representative Kilmer to support the Senate’s efforts to trigger the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, and pressure the administration to investigate Mr. Khashoggi’s death.

We should also examine whether Mr. Khashoggi’s death qualifies for the Torture Victim Protection Act of 1991.

Everyone needs to condemn President Trump’s attempts to deflect calls to look into Khashoggi’s death. Saying the U.S. has no responsibility because Mr. Khashoggi was a permanent resident and not a citizen is a shameful act of cowardice, predicated around trying to maintain financial ties with the Saudis.

Americans and our elected officials need to call out this behavior and demand stronger action.

AVA ARACHNE JARVIS

Bainbridge Island