Most of the objections to and outrage at the Trump administration can be understood in light of the concept of America, a concept
that Trump and his people reject.
Briefly, the U.S. Constitution embodies a set of ideas about what kind of country the founders envisioned. Largely in reaction to
Europe’s history of monarchies, and to England’s King George III in particular, the U.S. was to be, as Lincoln later described it, a
country “of the people, by the people and for the people.”
The Declaration of Independence actually lists the reasons early colonists threw off the rule of England, and they all had to do
with inalienable human rights, government by “consent of the governed,” and the right of the people to choose a government that will
see to their “Safety and Happiness.”
This whole American concept, that government serves the people and not the other way around, was a radical departure from the
thousands of years of human history that preceded it. The whole world sat up and took notice. This, above all, is what made America great.
But the Trump crew completely reject this concept. They are secretive, self-serving, and utterly inaccessible to ordinary
citizens. Trump regards himself as an absolute monarch … utterly infallible and above the law. He acknowledges no obligations to
his supporters, his colleagues in government, the Constitution or tradition. He is King Donald.
Many Republicans want to turn back the clock to a time before FDR. Trump wants it back to before George Washington.
Fortunately, many Americans still remember and cherish the American concept. Many still long for real liberty and justice, and not
mere words in an incoherent speech. This is why so many people have been chanting at their representatives, “You work for us!” And many government officials, perhaps even some Republicans, actually comprehend their duty to the
people and the law.
May the reign of King Donald be as short as it has been disastrous.
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