LETTER: Speak up and vote
There are two pandemics underway in this country. We have the rapid spread of COVID-19, which has killed an estimated 196,000 Americans so far this year. But many Americans are also caught up in a personality cult. Some think of it as partisan politics, but read the characteristics of cult behavior, and you decide.
Cults typically have one central revered leader who claims more knowledge than science or experts, and a singular ability to save the world. He creates chaos, dividing “his people” from outsiders by promoting an alternate reality that dismisses science, expert knowledge, and hard facts. Information is carefully controlled through specific anointed sources that parrot the leader’s proclamations – all else is “fake news.” Members boast their willingness to do anything for their leader, including assault or kill. This accurately describes the GOP extremism that President Trump has stoked.
Many of us outside the cult recognize these phenomena, while cult members fiercely attack any question or criticism of their leader. The rest of us know we can challenge our leaders, and regularly do. We wouldn’t choose a leader who claims supreme knowledge, or who dismisses science or facts. We know that human value is not conditional, and believe in the rule of law and the Constitution.
This is a very dangerous situation. Please, speak out for what you believe, and for what you want for America. If you want to save our democracy, vote.
Kirby MacLaurin
Honesdale