Vote Democratic if you believe in the Rule of Law
As an American and retired New Hampshire attorney, I believe in the rule of law and due process. Both are basic principles of our democracy that President Trump and Republicans in Congress have failed to uphold.
The few members of his party who challenge him face political attacks and primary opponents. But others face consequences that are far worse.
Consider the attacks on boats suspected of drug smuggling, including the killing of survivors. Legal procedures for the boarding, search, seizure and arrest of suspects were out. Murder was in.
Lawful arrests and a fair trial? Not with this administration.
Other examples within our own borders raise troubling concerns. Citizens, children and immigrants here legally continue to die in ICE arrests and custody. The White House East Wing? Demolished. The Kennedy Center? Closed. Trees on a beloved public golf course? Chopped down at the whim of a president with far more important things to do. In all of these cases, the administration chose to either bypass the law or to continue the harm despite court rulings.
Democracy depends on more than elections. It requires leaders who respect the law, obey court orders and protect the rights of everyone, including those accused of crimes.
I urge voters to consider these principles when they go to the polls. Our choices matter, from the U.S. Senate race to state legislative contests and every race in between. We must hold our elected officials accountable and protect the rule of law that sustains our democracy.