We, the Citizens of the United States, call on Congress to take immediate action to protect our democracy; uphold the principles of limited government, justice, equality, and liberty; and hold President Donald Trump accountable for his actions.

Since returning to office, President Trump has shown blatant disregard for the rule of law, national security, and the values that define America as a “City Upon a Hill” — a beacon of freedom and constitutional democracy. His rapid consolidation of executive power and systematic undermining of democratic institutions pose a grave threat to the United States, our allies, and the strength of the free world and its inhabitants.

 

Why This Matters

Throughout his political career, President Trump has fostered division and eroded trust in democratic institutions. Just six weeks into his second term, his actions already threaten our nation by:

• Reshaping government and military institutions to serve his personal interests

• Undermining transparency and essential public services

• Bypassing constitutional checks and balances

• Alienating American allies while appeasing authoritarian adversaries.

What’s at Stake

1. National and Economic Security

• Weakened Alliances: Trump’s hostility toward NATO and democratic partners endangers U.S. security at a time of rising authoritarian threats.

• Economic Risk: His reckless trade policies and alignment with the ultra-wealthy jeopardize the livelihoods of working- and middle-class Americans.

• Unfit Leadership: His antagonism toward national security experts and dismissal of credible intelligence make him unfit to serve as Commander-in-Chief.

2. Constitutional Integrity

• Abuse of Power: Trump continues to bypass legal and constitutional constraints.

• Selective Precedent: He invokes history only when it benefits him but ignores it when it limits his power.

• Election Integrity: His refusal to accept electoral outcomes and past incitement of political violence disqualify him from holding office.

3. Erosion of Transparency, Accountability, and Governance

• Cronyism Over Competence: He appoints unqualified loyalists rather than experienced professionals.

• Disinformation & Censorship: He discredits the free press and scientific bodies that challenge his falsehoods.

• Breakdown of Checks and Balances: His disregard for institutional norms erodes democratic safeguards.

4. Civil Liberties and Rights

• Incendiary Rhetoric: His language has fueled political extremism and deepened national division.

• Threats to Domestic Stability: His governance creates uncertainty and undermines the constitutional rights of Americans.

5. International Stability

• Emboldening Dictators: Trump’s relationships with autocratic leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping undermine democracy worldwide.

• Undermining U.S. Credibility: His erratic leadership weakens America’s diplomatic influence and global standing.

• Reckless Foreign Policy: His impulsive decisions put Americans at risk of international conflicts.

6. Corruption and Concentration of Power

• Conflicts of Interest: Trump’s financial dealings create ethical violations that benefit him personally, allowing him to profit from his Office.

• Political Influence: His grip on the Republican Party prioritizes personal loyalty over democratic principles.

• Judicial Manipulation: His judicial appointments insulate his administration from accountability.

Call to Action

We urge Congress—Republicans and Democrats alike—to put country before party and take decisive action by:

1. Investigating abuses of power that threaten democracy.

2. Exploring legal avenues for holding Trump accountable, including removal from office if necessary.

3. Strengthening protections for free and fair elections.

We also call on every American citizen to demand action from their representatives. The powers of the presidency have expanded unchecked for many years—it is time to rein them in.

We, the People, have the power to:

• Petition our local, state, and federal representatives to condemn Trump’s unconstitutional actions.

• Hold accountable those who place loyalty to Trump over their oath to the Constitution.

• Advocate for political reforms that increase transparency, accountability, and ethical governance.

• Support electoral changes that reduce polarization and encourage coalition-building.

Conclusion

 

The stakes are higher than ever; there is no analog in American history for the precipice upon which we stand.  Our democracy, security, and core values face an unprecedented threat. But democracy is not an abstract ideal—it is the foundation of our freedom and way of life. Congress must act now to defend these principles and hold President Trump accountable.

 

Together, we send a clear message: The American people will not stand idly by while our democracy is dismantled.

 

Signed, with uncertainty for our country but hope for our future, 

The Citizens of the United States of America