1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

Federal courts have recently stepped up in powerful ways to block several dangerous Trump administration initiatives, from limits on asylum to restrictions on abortion medication and efforts to withhold funding from states that don’t comply with federal mandates (Wall Street Journal, April 2025). These rulings remind us that the courts are doing their job, checking executive power and defending the Constitution. But now it’s time for Congress to show the same courage. Americans across the political spectrum agree on this: we do not want to live in a dictatorship. According to a recent YouGov poll, 80% of Americans—Republicans, Democrats, and independents—reject authoritarianism. A majority believe democracy, with all its flaws, remains the best form of government. That’s a clear message to every elected leader: we expect you to protect our freedoms, not enable their erosion. Despite this, the threat to democracy is real and growing. Experts at Protect Democracy rank the U.S. at a high threat level due to rising attacks on the press, misuse of executive power, and efforts to undermine elections. We’ve seen what happens when power is unchecked. We cannot afford silence or delay. I urge you to act now. Pass laws that limit executive overreach. Protect the courts, the press, and the civil service. Stand up clearly and publicly for democratic norms. The courts are doing their part. Will you do yours?