As a citizen, I am very concerned for our Democracy.

Our country is in an existential fight for our democracy. It is of utmost importance that elected leaders truly comprehend what is at risk and view all actions by the administration through the lens of the authoritarian’s playbook. History does repeat itself, although not with fidelity. I have witnessed the catastrophic results of authoritarianism before. These are not normal times and therefore they require unusual and innovative counter tactics.

Preventing the loss of healthcare for millions of citizens is a laudable effort, but does nothing to slow or stop the march of authoritarianism. Substantially increasing the cost of health care and canceling care is cruel indeed, but most people will know who is responsible for the deed. Those who voted for Trump have no one to blame other than him. Rescuing Republicans from their merciless assault only encourages them to further deploy such malevolent actions.

AS citizens, I think we must be forcefully and clearly known for vigorously resisting the authoritarian efforts of the Trump administration to create a theocratic autocracy. If we cannot save our democracy, all the other horrible things the Trump team is doing will seem quaint as we find ourselves standing amid the rubble of our beloved democratic form of government. Our resistance must be persistent, massive, innovative and above all, PEACEFUL. Trump and Miller are only waiting for a crisis to create an excuse to amass more power, emergency power, and remain in office indefinitely.

San Olson, Navy Veteran

Lopez Island