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Many Republican members of Congress are decent people who sought elective office to represent the wishes of their constituents. However, under the Trump administration they often face the difficult choice to either honor their sworn commitment to uphold our constitutional laws or pledge their allegiance to Donald Trump.
Failure to support the president’s dictates can result in swift repercussions. They will likely be faced with a well financed primary election opponent who is totally dedicated to Trump. They may also endure vicious personal attacks.
We have seen judges who ruled against the president’s wishes threatened with impeachment. Their addresses and phone numbers may appear on right-wing social media making them easy targets for any Trump supporter who may wish to show their fealty to Trump trusting in being pardoned for any crime they may inflict.
With few exceptions, Congress and the courts seem unwilling to challenge this authoritarian administration. Those of us who are desperate to preserve our constitutional laws have one weapon to aid us: our vote.
Abraham Lincoln said it most eloquently, “of the people, for the people and by the people.” He was talking about the true strength of America, each individual citizen doing his best to preserve our values. We can run for office ourselves or support those who pledge to uphold the law and oppose all who threaten our cherished way of life.
Ron Jarvella
Belfast
