1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern about the economic and political trajectory of our country under Donald Trump’s leadership. His reckless tariff policies are not only failing to protect American industries but are actively harming our economy. Historically, protectionist policies have led to economic stagnation and global instability—lessons we should have learned from Japan’s disastrous path in the 1930s. Trump’s economic approach—escalating trade wars, attacking democratic institutions, and fostering an imperial-style cult of personality—is eerily reminiscent of Japan’s descent into economic hardship and militarism before World War II. Japan’s reliance on tariffs, imperial expansion, and suppression of democratic voices led to devastating consequences. If we continue down this road, we will find ourselves isolated, economically weakened, and struggling to recover from self-inflicted wounds. The so-called "cure" of tariffs is proving worse than the disease. While Trump claims these measures will strengthen American industry, history shows that tariffs lead to retaliatory trade barriers, increased costs for consumers, and economic contraction. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 worsened the Great Depression, just as Trump’s trade wars are now straining businesses, farmers, and working families. Democracy cannot survive in an environment where economic instability is coupled with authoritarian tendencies. Trump’s disregard for democratic norms, coupled with his economic mismanagement, threatens the very foundation of our republic. If he continues on this path, his failure will be inevitable—but at what cost to the American people? I urge you to take a stand against these harmful policies and fight for a return to sound economic principles and democratic governance. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past.