To the Editor,

Wanted to end the year on a cheerful note recounting all the good things that happened. End of paragraph.

Not all bad if sports and entertainment count, but experiencing the onset of what could be fatal attacks on every positive aspect of life in these formerly United States let fear and loathing creep in. 

Our country was founded on the profound pronouncement, We the People. The year 2025 has been a year of dictatorial power completely bypassing the constitutional foundation we have fought and died for these 250 years. 

We the People has been disregarded by the legislative branches charged with making laws and a system of courts ensuring adherence to them. They have not fulfilled their roles so we are left with unelected villainous advisors filling the void of presidential wisdom while pursuing their own interests. Actions are taken through their mouthpiece, the president of the United States, formerly respected leader of the free world.

What to expect in 2026?

People and state legislators are fighting back against such actions as unnecessary brutality of the ICE force, deporting thousands of innocents, legislating by executive orders (dictatorship), attempts to disrupt the election processes, failed election promises to stop on going wars, granting pardons to supporting groups and individuals, and now performing murderous attacks on ships at sea without a semblance of due process. 

This is just a small sample of the actions this administration has taken and continue to take at dizzying speed to stay ahead of the laws and guardrails set forth for the protection of We the People. 

This rush to tear down our democracy must be countered by We the People through energetic, persistent actions of Democrats, Independents, and wavering Republicans sickened by destructive forces now in power. Good stuff is happening now. Watch it grow to a crescendo by election day 2026. Recovering/Rebuilding starts that crucial day. Vote.

Lee Purrier,

Park Rapids