To the editor:

On Jan. 20, President Trump took the Oath of Office: a promise to faithfully execute the duties of the presidency and preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. The rule of law is intended to apply to everyone in this country, regardless of race, political affiliation, gender, ethnicity, religion, immigrant status etc. But, under President Trump our checks and balances are disintegrating into authoritarianism.

With the stroke of a felt pen and dramatic signature for all to admire, Trump has issued 130+ executive orders. His message: I am dictator/king and make all decisions — trust me I’m a genius. Trump and his sycophants want to dictate every aspect of our lives: what we read, news we watch, who we love, teaching at schools and universities, removing uncomfortable history/banning books, who gets hired and fired……. And where is the money from these funding cuts going? Will the ultra-rich be rewarded once again via tax cuts? This at a time when the administration is also targeting Head Start and Meals for Seniors. Take from the poor and give to the rich?

The recent unlawful deportation of hundreds of Venezuelans to a notorious El Salvador prison without due process has become a flash point. Kilmar Garcia, a legal Maryland immigrant was also deported to this prison. Kilmer was here legally, with no evidence of gang related activity. The response: oops – this was an “administrative error.” Garcia remains in El Salvador to date. The administration’s failure to follow due process in this situation should be a red flag warning: this could happen to any one of us. And don’t forget: Trump asked President Bukele to build five more prisons for “home-grown criminals.” Let that sink in. And don’t get me started on these disastrous tariffs.

It is time to hold this corrupt, convicted felon President and his knee bending administration and GOP accountable. We all need to step up and say something, do something. Representative Brad Finstad refuses to hold an in-person town hall, but we can protest, write letters, emails, call our legislators — Republican and Democrat. Make some noise.

Pat Booker

New Ulm