Capitol attackers are not patriots

The despicable acts on Jan. 6 at the Capitol were carried out by rioters, not patriots. In my opinion, true “American patriots” do not live off conspiracy theories while yelling, screaming and acting belligerently until they get what they want.

True patriots honor the Constitution and support democracy, even if it pains them and an election doesn’t go their way. True patriots would defend our symbol of democracy and not desecrate it while hiding behind the First Amendment.

This was not “taxation without representation” against a monarch; it was about elevating a president to monarch status. A true patriot’s loyalty lies with the country before any political party or person. True patriots think for themselves and don’t elevate a mortal to God-like status and treat his every word as gospel.

Every citizen has the right to be heard, but the vocal minority cannot be allowed to spread anarchy; the tail cannot wag the dog. If you lose an election, take it like a man, act like an adult and vote again next time.

Let’s pray our country will once again be a shining example of democracy instead of an international embarrassment. We’re better than this. Owen Klicker

Macungie