1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to you today not simply as one constituent among many, but as someone deeply concerned about the direction of our public discourse—and how actions at the highest levels of government are shaping it. Earlier today, former President Trump delivered a speech in which he referred to threats “from within,” describing Americans in opposition to his views as internal enemies. That kind of language is deeply troubling. It erodes the foundation of democratic debate and risks turning political disagreement into moral judgment or worse. I want to make three things very clear in this letter: 1. I am not the enemy. Having political differences does not make someone an enemy. I believe in the right—and the duty—to hold elected officials accountable, to evaluate policies with a critical mind, and to voice dissent when I believe power is being abused. That is exactly what democracy asks of us. 2. Public rhetoric matters. The language used by those in power signals what is acceptable in society at large. Declaring that one’s own countrymen or women are enemies because they disagree is dangerous. It can stoke fear, division, and even violence. I am asking you, as my representative, to defend not only my rights but the dignity of every American, even those whose views differ. 3. I want constructive action—not mere rhetoric. It’s not enough to condemn inflammatory speech. I urge you to: • Speak out forcefully against language that frames dissent as disloyalty. • Introduce or support legislation that strengthens democratic safeguards—e.g. protecting free speech, preventing undue use of military power in domestic affairs, ensuring oversight of executive actions. • Commit to maintaining respectful discourse, even when disagreements are sharp, and to avoid portraying political opponents as some existential threat. I believe in this country, and I believe in representative democracy. When leaders use language of us-versus-them, we all suffer. I’m asking you to stand firmly against that division. Thank you for your service and for hearing this message. I hope you will show leadership by choosing courage and respect over fear and antagonism.