In my 77 years, I have seen a few things. Today I have never been so afraid for this nation and the generations following me. I owe them the good world granted to me by the sacrifices of those before me.
Here is a difficult challenge for you. Stand up and defend the separation of powers so wisely framed by our founders and take back the power due you as my elected representative. Put loyalty to the constitution over loyalty to party, person and career.
We are at the intersection of constitutional order and an authoritarian executive regime that has pardoned violent people and withdrawn protection from former government officials who face credible death threats. A green light for some to choose the violence lane thinking they, as many others will not be held accountable.
Further, political loyalty is being demanded of federal workers and DOJ officers are targeted for following lawful directives. President Trump, who per the Supreme Court is above the law in the execution of his duties, was elected promising retribution. So is retribution accepted policy? If you don’t want to be on the receiving end, just keep in line with a smile?
Maybe that looks good if the current president is your man. But what of the next and the next …? Can any human be worthy of such power? Please point me to an example of a nation where such a concentration of power has been just and successful.
Perhaps you are happy with the seeming unlimited power of the Musk-Trump regime. Maybe you believe that the richest, most powerful, most free nation we share is really, as alleged, a total mess. One that must be remade from scratch. Maybe that view looks bold and brilliant. But remember that dismantling things is the easy the short cut. Building and thoughtful reform are the truly demanding and worthy tasks. Remember Humpty Dumpty?
Please stand up and do the really hard work. Protect the rights of all our people by exerting the proper authority of congress to control funding, create or remove agencies, and assure the rule of law under the executive whose power you are charged to check.
This can be your moment. We are all depending on you.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
— Tim Joy
Before it’s too late
Since 1980, more than $50 trillion has been transferred from the bottom 90% of Americans to the top 1%. If we do the math, this means every man, woman, and child in the bottom 90% has seen approximately $140,000 of its wealth stolen by the top 1%.
While Republican politicians attempt to divert your attention with DEI and transgender issues, their wealthy donors have essentially picked your pockets. This is why you need a second job while they are shopping for a bigger yacht with a heliport. And meanwhile, these same Republican politicians are abolishing the Consumer Protection Agency and anything else that might give you a small measure of protection against their predator-class donors.
I hope we still have free and fair elections in 2026. You may have voted Republican your entire life but I would encourage you to look at the damage they have done to the middle class and reconsider your choices, before it’s too late.
— Peter Birschbach, Port Royal
Various thoughts
I enjoy reading Margaret Evans articles. The BIFF Vibe. I’ve long heard of Cannes and Sundance film festivals, but her article shows that our own film festival is in the same league. The breakfast at Blackstone boys was excellent. I was amazed what the Tuckers have done over the years to make the festival a poplar and huge success.
Carol Lucas: I love you! Mariann Edgar Buddle Prayer service I watched. This woman is a brave, courageous, and emphatic soul. For Donald Trump and his MAGA Loonies to fly into outrage for what she said is preposterous! She speaking God’s words!
Republicans continue to try and steal lottery profits from public schools to fund scholarships to private education even though it has been struck down by the supreme court. They should be ashamed!
— Don Cass, Beaufort
