Letter to the editor: Authoritarianism vs. democracy

Times are turbulent, but last week was a slap to the face. People are finally acknowledging what is occurring.

For four years there has been an intentional erosion of our democratic norms permitted because those who had the ability to “check and balance” the executive branch were more interested in partisan policy and judicial gains than preservation of our democracy.

It has been a zero sum game that a majority of Republicans willingly played. Either you are with the president or you are against him.

A violent insurrection has brought into focus the true fight. It is not a fight of “right” vs. “left” or “conservative” vs. “liberal”; it is a fight of “authoritarianism” vs. “democracy.”

Sycophants (like Sen. Ted Cruz), enablers (like Sen. Mitch McConnell) and cuckolds (like Sen. Lindsey Graham) are finally coming to their senses. They deserve neither commendations nor a free pass, but they should be recognized for recognizing the error.

Those that enabled this embarrassment must pay. A Confederate flag was paraded into the Capitol, yet many Pennsylvania officials remained silent. A Capitol policeman died, yet our representatives stayed silent.

Perhaps the most disappointing is Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Peters. Prior to federal life, he was a shining example of a reasonable, principled politician and magistrate. He represented everyone. I oppose many policies he believes in, but I supported him because he was a good and pragmatic leader. No longer.

He peddles conspiracy theories. He audaciously compares Trump to Lincoln. He clearly is for sale. Hopefully, two years allows for some growth, because he can be a great leader. We will see.

Patrick Malone

Mt. Lebanon