1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

I am a mother of two school-age children, a teacher, and a proud member of my community in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I am concerned that our leadership is disconnected from the reality of American life and values, in their words, actions, and decisions about money. I do not want more money spent on deporting immigrants, most of whom are families who work hard and are part of our communities. I do not want anyone, no matter their status, shipped off to places like South Sudan or El Salvador for any reason, and especially not in direct contradiction of judges’ orders and due process. I would value untangling our current system so that they have a clear path to citizenship. I want justice to be served fairly and in a nonpartisan way. I am concerned by recent statements from the head of DHS, who seems to believe that habeas corpus – one of our most precious founding rights setting the precedent for evidence and due process – is the president’s right to do what he likes to anyone, at any time, for any reason. I do not want high tariffs and insults slung at our allies, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and aggression that will hurt our economy, the lives of everyday Americans, and our long-term global relationships. At the same time, I do not want millions of dollars spent on a Golden Dome or other military measures while our government is intentionally creating a tense and disrespectful political atmosphere with other nations. I do want my tax money, both state and federal, spent to help the most vulnerable among us, so that we all can move forward with strength. I want it used in rural schools, for food programs, for Medicaid and Social Security, and for medical information and research that saves lives. Stand up today for what Americans actually need and want to make our lives better. Speak up for democratic practices -- not authoritarian ones -- and for bipartisan collaboration to have actual conversations about solutions that will work in the long term. Thank you for serving your country and for serving us here in Wisconsin who voted for you.