1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to demand that you publicly reject Speaker Mike Johnson’s dangerous and highly divisive rhetoric labeling members of the Democratic Party as "radical communists" and "Marxists." A healthy constitutional republic relies on a functioning multi-party system, adherence to truth, and respect for democratic opposition. Using extreme red-baiting to paint millions of American voters and their elected representatives as existential, hostile threats is a form of anti-constitutionalism. It is designed to dismantle public faith in our democratic institutions and justify the subversion of the democratic process. As my representative, I demand that you open a dictionary, consult international standards, and recognize the actual definitions of these political systems: • Democratic Socialism (as practiced in allied democratic nations like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden): A democratic system where the economy is managed alongside robust social safety nets (healthcare, education, and labor rights) while maintaining a free-market economy, personal property rights, and free, competitive elections. This is not a threat to democracy—it is a staple of many of America’s closest global allies. • Communism (Scientific/Marxist Definition): A theoretical stateless, classless society where the means of production are owned communally and private property (not personal property) is abolished. Applying the label of "communist" to mainstream, center-left American policy proposals—such as expanding healthcare, protecting voting rights, or regulating corporations—is factually illiterate, intentionally dishonest, and politically toxic. I urge you to: 1 Publicly distance yourself from Speaker Johnson's inflammatory rhetoric. 2 Commit to defending the constitutional legitimacy of political opposition. 3 Oppose the weaponization of federal funds and congressional committees to persecute political rivals under the guise of "fighting communism." We must reject this anti-constitutional campaign of fear and division. Hold our leadership to the standards of truth, the Constitution, and basic political literacy.