1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

I am writing to express deep concern over President Trump’s actions that increasingly mirror those of authoritarian leaders throughout history. The American people do not want to live in an autocracy, and it is imperative that our elected representatives stand against these alarming developments. 1. Consolidation of Power: President Trump has expanded executive authority, often bypassing Congress and undermining the system of checks and balances. His extensive use of executive orders and disregard for judicial decisions erode the foundational principles of our democracy. 2. Undermining the Judiciary: The President has publicly attacked judges who rule against him, threatening the independence of the judiciary. Such actions are reminiscent of tactics used by authoritarian regimes to delegitimize and control the legal system. 3. Attacks on the Free Press: Labeling the media as “the enemy of the people” and attempting to restrict press access are strategies that authoritarian leaders employ to suppress dissent and control information. A free and independent press is vital to a functioning democracy. 4. Targeting Political Opponents: The administration has used government agencies to investigate and intimidate political adversaries, a move that parallels the practices of dictatorial regimes aiming to silence opposition. 5. Erosion of Civil Liberties: Policies that infringe upon the rights of immigrants, protesters, and minority groups reflect a broader pattern of undermining civil liberties, a hallmark of authoritarian governance. 6. Manipulation of Electoral Processes: Efforts to delegitimize election results and restrict voting access threaten the integrity of our electoral system, a tactic often used by autocrats to maintain power. 7. Militarization of Domestic Policy: Deploying federal forces against peaceful protesters and advocating for military parades are indicative of an authoritarian approach to governance, prioritizing displays of power over civil discourse. 8. Cult of Personality: The President’s emphasis on personal loyalty over institutional integrity fosters a cult of personality, undermining democratic norms and concentrating power in the hands of one individual. These actions collectively signify a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism. I urge you to uphold your oath to the Constitution by actively opposing these measures and working to preserve the democratic values that define our nation.