The media was quick in blaming Donald Trump for the outcome of the recent election. However, the Republican Party played a major role, along with the right-wing media and conspiracy followers, who elevated Trump to the status of prophet of the Republican Party.
How many times over the last six years did the GOP and right-wing media have the opportunity to speak out against his lies, misinformation and self-serving platform? For starters, there were two impeachment trials addressing his transgressions and the Big Lie that the 2020 election was stolen, the same lie Republican candidates are using in Arizona, contesting certification of results. Who can forget Trump inciting an insurrection? His loyal followers on Jan. 6 attempted to destroy our seat of democracy and the peaceful transfer of power. Then there was the removal of classified documents. These were all opportunities for the Grand Old Party to denounce his actions, but instead they vilified others, made up excuses or remained silent.
The GOP has emboldened Trump, and in doing so has given a platform to others like Ron DeSantis, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Ron Johnson to openly spread fear and lies about LGBTQ people, Jews and minorities. They propagate hate and violence with their white supremacist, anti-democratic talking points that incite people to lash out at groups they deem not worthy of their approval.
This isn’t on Trump. This is on the Republican Party that has allowed this neo-fascist movement to take root and threaten our democracy and individual freedoms.
Katie Forsythe
North Huntingdon