I had worried for some time that Trump would impose an authoritarian government. I no longer need to worry that might happen. He has done it.

He has taken steps to create a one party system. He ignores Congress.  He says he could ignore court orders if he disagrees with them. He deploys federal troops to deal with domestic issues.  He has eliminated many government workers and programs simply because “they are not consistent with the president’s policies.” He thinks the president is the government. He uses government agencies to promote partisan propaganda and for revenge against perceived enemies. He invented an imaginary nefarious enemy, Antifa, that is working to destroy our country.

So, what do we the people do? A lot! We must keep at it, but all of us need to take part. We need the countrywide protests for which millions turned out, and we need local demonstrations that show our neighbors they are not alone with their concerns. Stay informed from reliable sources.  Help those who are being hurt. Support groups opposing his illegal actions. We can talk with friends, neighbors, relatives. Listen to their worries and hopes, say what we believe, share frustrations. We need to convince legislators to stand up against this tyranny–or replace them. We need to speak out when we see injustice being perpetrated. Each of us who feels the anger, the guilt, the shame of what is happening to our country must VOTE. Remember, the majority of Americans are with us.

Joe Douglas,

Lawrence