As our country descends into a year of unprecedented violence (more mass shootings than days in the year), I wonder if anyone thinks that the actions at the top are trickling down?
This month our Department of Defense was renamed the Department of War. The Department of War is now being used in American cities against American citizens. This week’s quote from our president, “They spit, we hit.” He went on to suggest that dangerous cities be used as training for our military.
Our Department of War is also being used to execute suspected drug runners in international waters. Using the military in this way is not normal, nor is skipping due process normal. Add to this the talk of retribution and hate speech and, well, it seems to me America is following its leaders.
American carnage is a phrase used by President Trump in his 2017 inauguration speech, which now feels like perhaps this was his vision for our country.
I believe we are better than this and better than many of our current leaders. I think Trump’s plan to divide us helps him and the billionaire class rob us blind while we argue.
Wake up, America! Do not fall for this con.
Sarah Buck, Salt Lake City
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