To the editor:

Ten years ago, when Trump rode that escalator, the mood of America began changing. We’re losing common decency — what’s right or wrong! There’s little trust at home or abroad. We’re living in an ugly culture of fear.

Our foreign policy’s now turned ugly. Trump promised no war, then bombed Iran illegally and unconstitutionally. America first; everyone else last. And now our troops are in danger. We’re left guessing on Trump’s next move. We cannot trust anything out of his mouth. Will he declare a national emergency? U.S.A. is not at war with Iran; Trump is!

MAGA is giving permission to be ugly and mean-spirited. ICE raids are everywhere. First Amendment rights are being ignored. People are punished for their speech or arrested for how they look. People are being incarcerated without charges or due process in inhumane and cruel conditions. Trump says it’s all about law and order, but Trump’s the one breaking the law.

A cruel, unpopular budget, plus tariffs, is heading our country toward a recession. An unqualified president and Cabinet is out of control, spewing lies, misinformation and utter nonsensical fabrications. Republicans in the Legislature follow along blindly.

It doesn’t matter that we are surrounded by darkness. We must make the decision to see the light. Our community rallying together can find that light. Yes, Trump is bad for America, but citizens exercising their voices and presenting a huge, combined resistance can move the needle toward positive. Be a part of that movement. Do what’s right!

Charley Crabtree,

Lawrence