Take oath seriously

Three years ago, like millions of Americans, I watched in horror as a mob incited by the president attacked the U.S. Capitol. Tears streamed down my face as brave police officers were beaten trying to protect our members of Congress. Five people died within 36 hours, including a police officer. Insurrectionists breached the Capitol, destroyed property, carried gallows, and chanted “Hang Mike Pence.” Their goal was to stop election certification. Members of Congress begged Donald Trump to call off the crowd and activate the National Guard. Frantic hours passed before the president finally ordered reinforcements.

That shameful day was caused by Trump’s false claim that the election was stolen. Republican congressional members knew it was a lie. Sen. Mitch McConnell said, “Voters, the courts and the states have all spoken. If we overrule them, it would damage our republic forever.”

Trump was impeached for incitement of insurrection. This included his statements that day encouraging lawless action against Congress and his unhinged efforts in the weeks prior to obstruct the election results.

Where are we now? The ex-president has continued to make baseless claims about a stolen election. The lie has been promoted by conspiratorial sources and permeates social media. We could not have imagined three years ago that this same guy would be leading in the Republican polls for the next election. He continues to spew undemocratic, hateful rhetoric. He will put our nation and world in danger again if given the chance.

What would really help to save our democracy right now? Republican members of Congress must speak truth and say: Biden won in 2020. Trump, having engaged in insurrection, is ineligible for office.

I’m asking Arkansas members to care more about our Constitution than fear of being primaried. Take your oath of office seriously. Save our nation.

TERI PATRICK Little Rock