Democracy depends on punishment for Trump

Ashley Hinson's warning that a second impeachment of Donald Trump would further worsen the division in our country is totally wrong. Rather it would be the failure to repudiate Trump's incitement of the Capitol rioters that would deepen our national chasm. The unpatriotic traitors, including Trump, who participated in the storming of the Capitol must be told in no uncertain terms that their actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Unless Trump is impeached and subsequently convicted, his backers will have license to continue their efforts to destroy our nation. Being afraid to punish wrongdoers is a recipe for further wrongdoings. Our country's democratic future depends on Trump being promptly punished and permanently removed from any governing role.

John Noel

Decorah