1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's weaponization of government agencies against critics and political opponents has significantly raised the cost of opposition, undermining a core pillar of democracy - the right to peacefully criticize and oppose those in power without fear of retribution. When citizens must think twice before voicing dissent due to credible threats of punitive actions like baseless prosecutions, regulatory harassment, funding cuts, or physical attacks, we have crossed the line into competitive authoritarianism. This disturbing trend imperils our democratic system and civic freedoms. Prompt action is imperative to rein in the abuse of government power against legitimate opposition and safeguard the sacred principle that all Americans have the right to organize, protest, and seek to change their leadership through elections without facing reprisals. Protecting this foundational democratic right is essential to preserving our free society.