Supporting Iowans’ vote for change is not ‘fear of Trump’

In his January 12th guest column for The Gazette, John S. Westefield expresses concern that Sen. Joni Ernst might make decisions out of fear of losing her position rather than adhering to her fundamental principles.

It seems that Westefield has contemplated this issue since at least a 2021 letter to the Press Citizen, where he mentioned "Fear of Trump" and referenced the term “Mar-a-Lago syndrome” but describes what is commonly known as Trump Derangement Syndrome. He states, "I also think the Fear of Trump relates to the urgency of the moment. I have seen numerous examples of people engaging in behaviors that they know they will regret later, may be harmful to self and others in the future, and that, deep in their soul, they know are just plain wrong."

I wonder if, over the years, the Professor Emeritus has reflected on the integrity of those who have publicly and dangerously misrepresented Joe Biden's mental health, claimed "The border is secure," or suggested that "The laptop has all the earmarks of Russian disinformation." Have they faced a considerable psychological toll for forsaking their values and beliefs?

Perhaps, Professor, Sen. Ernst will heed the majority of Iowans — not just "some" or "a share" — who voted for meaningful change. If I recall correctly from my high school government class, responding to the will of the people is a valid justification for supporting one's constituents and should not lead to the anxiety and regret you fear it might cause.

Robert Jiroutek

Cedar Rapids