To the editor:

When I was born, Herbert Hoover was president. So, I’ve lived a lot more history than most of you, and I think I’ve gained a fair amount of wisdom along the way. In addition, I am an Independent who has voted for both Republicans and Democrats. Lastly, I am not given to hysterical thinking. So, with that in mind, believe me when I say that our democracy is in peril, and the upcoming mid-term election is pivotal in saving it.

The Trump-controlled Republican party has become dangerously radicalized. Their primary goal, at present, is to gain power and do whatever it takes to hold onto it (e.g., voting restrictions and unfair redistricting).

So, my plea is to all Republicans who dread the possibility of America following the global trend toward autocracy. In the upcoming election, shock your party into cleaning house and restoring its former role as a defender of our democracy. Put your country above party, swallow the bitter pill and vote for the Democratic candidates. They have plans to tackle some of our problems. Give them the majorities they need to enact them.

Patrick Shannon,

Lawrence