We never imagined we would witness the erosion of democracy and the rise of authoritarianism in America. As proud citizens, we have always valued this nation’s founding principles: liberty and justice. We value the right to live under a government that reflects the people’s will. Those values face a direct and accelerating threat.

This President’s actions show disregard for democratic norms and the rule of law. He has undermined elections, stifled dissent, attacked the free press, and consolidated power. Such actions have no place in a constitutional republic. We are not on the edge of authoritarianism. We are inside it.

We are sounding an alarm that too few in power are willing to voice. This President shows no intention of leaving office after four years. Attacking electoral institutions, demanding loyalty tests, dismantling oversight—this is not the conduct of a leader who plans a peaceful transition. This is the behavior of someone who does not plan to hand over power at all. All in government who still believe in peaceful transition must reckon with this reality now, while there is still time to act.

We demand that Vice President J.D. Vance and members of Congress find their humanity. Find a shred of the patriotism they claim to hold. Do the right thing. The 25th Amendment exists for moments like this. It is not a political weapon. It is a constitutional safeguard. It was written by people who knew the Republic could face such a crisis.

To Vice President Vance: history is watching. You swore an oath to the Constitution, not to one man. If you believe in the America you claim, and if you want your own children to inherit a democracy, you must act. Invoking the 25th Amendment is not betrayal. Staying silent while democracy is dismantled is.

Vice President and Congress, act now. Rebuild institutional trust. Show that America will not give in to authoritarian rule. The longer you wait, the fewer options remain.

Sign this petition. Demand the 25th Amendment’s invocation. The future of the Republic is not an abstraction. It is being decided now.