A recent study finds that if just twelve million Americans (3.5% of the population) consistently engage in peaceful protest, Donald Trump’s march toward authoritarian rule could collapse as political and financial backers abandon him. Recent demonstrations have already drawn more than seven million participants–each one larger than the last. This rising tide of civic courage may be our best chance to defend democracy before it’s too late.

Trump has shown utter contempt for truth, law, and the institutions meant to safeguard us. He has enriched himself at public expense, dismantled protections for the vulnerable, and ruled through fear and division. Programs that feed the hungry and care for the elderly are being gutted. Higher education and a free press–the lifeblood of democracy–are under attack.

He has issued unconstitutional executive orders, deported people without due process, and weaponized the Department of Justice against political opponents. Masked federal agents–armed like soldiers–have assaulted peaceful demonstrators and expanded surveillance of American citizens.

By calling Democrats “vermin” and labeling protesters “terrorists,” Trump is normalizing hate and preparing the ground for violence.

This is not partisan hysteria–it is a warning history repeats. Democracies die when citizens stay silent. They survive only when people rise, peacefully and persistently, to defend the freedoms that define them. The time to act is now.

DOUG KEITH

State College

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom