The Jan. 6 insurrection will be an indelible memory for nearly all Americans. Five people lost their lives and our democracy was tarnished because of the calibrated planning of President Trump, as he encouraged his supporters to “take back” an election which had no evidence of fraud. I felt anger that this could happen so easily, but at the same time, I was overwhelmed with sadness at the realization of the brokenness of our country.
Only seven Republican senators chose country over party regarding the impeachment of Trump, including Pennsylvania’s Pat Toomey. Most of the state GOPs are in the process of censuring them. Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey also voted to convict Trump. They chose to uphold the Constitution and their oaths to their office. Casey said, “Failing to hold those responsible for the insurrection accountable would be a profound injustice and give a green light to future authoritarians.” In defense of his decision, Toomey stated, “A lawless attempt to retain power by a president was one of the founders’ greatest fears motivating the inclusion of the impeachment authorities in the U.S. Constitution.”
Casey and Toomey work for all Pennsylvanians. We owe them gratitude for showing integrity in defense of our democracy.
Judith Flaherty
Brighton Heights