Democracy includes peaceful protest

Recent comments by a local columnist and legislators have painted those who disapprove of the Trump administration’s actions as not representative of American voters’ wishes. However, the 77 million who voted for Trump comprised slightly less than half of those who voted, so that’s hardly a “mandate” from American citizens, let alone those who didn’t bother to vote. Interviews with many who supported him indicate their regret because they aren’t getting what they thought they voted for.

None of us want fraud and waste in government or any other institution. It’s the slash and burn approach without any due process that is being criticized and protested.

As a senior citizen and patriot of the U.S. and its Constitution, I am peacefully protesting along with several million other voters. The characterization of us as paid agitators is offensive and demeaning.

As the April 5 guest column rebuttal to Althea Cole reminded us, “From the Boston Tea Party to the Civil Rights Movement, America’s greatest progress has come when ordinary citizens stood up and spoke out.” Democracy includes free peaceful speech.

Americans are being bullied and threatened by billionaires, with the elected one focused on vendettas, just like other autocrats and dictators around the world. Trump acts as if his constituents are Putin and Musk, instead of Americans to whom he swore the oath “to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution.”

Support democracy, not dictatorship.

Jo Ann McNeil

Cedar Rapids