Dear Editor,

In response to the recent letter urging Democrats to “accept the election,” let’s be clear: acceptance is not the same as silence. Democracy requires both.

Respecting outcomes and holding leaders accountable.

I don’t hate all Republicans. But I do hate what Donald Trump has done to this country. He has fueled division, undermined trust, and put his own power above the common good. That’s not partisanship, it’s a question of character and accountability.

Criticizing a president is not hatred. It’s democracy. Americans—Republican or Democrat—have the right and the responsibility to question leaders who fail us. That’s how our system stays healthy.

And while we’re at it, why bring immigrants into a conversation about accepting election results? It’s a distraction. The vast majority of violent crime is committed by U.S. citizens. Scapegoating immigrants doesn’t make us safer; it only divides us further, which is exactly the kind of politics Trump thrives on.

So yes, we accept elections. But acceptance does not mean blind loyalty. Real patriotism is refusing to stay silent when our country is at risk.

Sincerely,

April Nielsen

Black Hawk