1. United States
2. Ark.
3. Letter

When Stephen Miller recently stated that people who preach hate for America will be ejected from the country under a future Trump administration, he exposed a clear disregard for the First Amendment and the core principles of our democracy. Equating criticism of America with violent criminal behavior is not only offensive, it is a direct attack on the right to free expression that defines who we are as a nation. This type of rhetoric is not just dangerous. It is un-American. The First Amendment exists to protect speech, especially when that speech is unpopular or challenges those in power. Dissent is not a threat to America. It is what has made us stronger throughout history. The idea that a future administration could remove people based on their political views or criticisms of the government should be alarming to every member of Congress regardless of party. The suggestion that people who disagree with a political leader or express frustration or demand accountability should be punished or deported undermines every value we claim to stand for. When leaders weaponize immigration enforcement against ideas and beliefs, they are not defending the country. They are hollowing it out from within. It is not enough to quietly disagree with these dangerous ideas. There must be public and legislative resistance. Congress must make clear that the Constitution applies to all people under its protection and that freedom of speech is not conditional on political agreement. We can enforce immigration laws with fairness and humanity. We can protect citizens and still show kindness to immigrants whether they are here legally or not. America does not need prison camps or fear tactics. What we need is leadership that affirms the rule of law while rejecting authoritarian cruelty and ideological purges. If we want to preserve this country’s soul we must stand up when it is being chipped away. Not later. Now.