I am writing to express my deep concern about Donald Trump’s recent attempt to unlawfully install a new Federal Election Commissioner, as reported by NPR on February 7, 2025. This is yet another blatant violation of legal and democratic norms, part of his ongoing effort to dismantle the institutions that protect our government from authoritarian rule. His actions threaten the very foundation of our democracy, and they must be stopped.
Trump’s attempt to override the Federal Election Commission’s established rules is not an isolated act. It follows a long history of undermining the rule of law, manipulating government agencies for personal gain, and attacking democratic institutions. He led a concerted effort to overturn the 2020 election, culminating in his encouragement of the violent January 6th insurrection. He has repeatedly interfered in the justice system, pressuring the Department of Justice to target political opponents while shielding his allies from prosecution. His presidency was marked by blatant obstruction of congressional oversight, defying subpoenas and refusing to cooperate with investigations.
His efforts to erode democracy did not end when he left office. In recent years, he has continued to spread dangerous election lies, called for the suspension of the Constitution, and encouraged political violence against those who oppose him. His attempts to seize control of independent government agencies, including the FEC, are part of a broader effort to consolidate power and remove all obstacles to his return to office. These actions mirror those of authoritarian leaders who dismantle democratic checks to ensure their grip on power.
If allowed to continue unchecked, Trump’s unlawful behavior will permanently damage the integrity of our electoral system. The FEC is designed to protect fair elections, and his attempts to install a loyalist are a direct attack on free and fair voting. The legitimacy of our democracy depends on preventing one man from overriding the rule of law for his own benefit.
I urge you to take immediate action to stop this illegal and unprecedented behavior. Congress must act swiftly to block Trump’s attempt to undermine the FEC and ensure that our election systems remain independent and protected from political manipulation. Lawmakers must also push for stronger legal safeguards to prevent future abuses of power. History has shown that democracies do not collapse overnight; they erode when elected officials fail to act. I urge you to defend the rule of law before it is too late.