As a professional historian I have taught a number of college courses including those about the American Revolution and the Civil War. The nation is currently facing an existential crisis unlike anything it has seen since Southern secession in 1860. And though I have never been politically active, I am now working to support a man of integrity, Bob Statchen, for state Senate.

Our nation has weathered many crises, but never has the 1st Amendment of the Constitution been attacked by the very man sworn to “preserve, protect defend” it. When President Donald Trump beats the drum claiming “the press is the enemy of the people,” he selfishly undermines the single most important precept of American law which states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion . . . or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press . . .” And, when the Republican Party abandons its values to such a demagogue, it also abrogates its own legitimacy.

I implore independent voters and members of both parties alike to unite in a “Blue Wave” to repudiate Donald Trump, and to repudiate any elected official who lacks the integrity to oppose him openly.

Glenn S. Gordinier

Stonington