Folks, we’re in trouble. Our democracy is being dismantled. Authoritarianism is banging on our doors. I never imagined I would say those words. But it’s truly happening right in front of our eyes.

Autocrats use a playbook very similar to Project 2025. See if these tactics that can crumble democracy and lead to authoritarianism sound familiar:

• Divide and rule by creating and spreading mistrust and fear in our country. We see that all the time on social media.

• The autocrat surrounds him/herself with loyalists, rather than independent and merit-based choices. Checks and balances on following the law and the constitution disappear.

• Government agencies are gutted and replaced by loyalists. The legislature and judiciary become powerless.

• Free speech is actively suppressed for any of us who disagree with said autocrat.

• Unfair blame is placed directly on minorities, immigrants, and “outsiders” for problems in our country. Even refugees who are here legally are being returned to their oppressive countries. The vast majority of immigrants who have been imprisoned in El Salvador have not been granted due process. They have been immediately deemed guilty. (Isn’t it supposed to be “innocent before proven guilty?”)

• Perhaps the scariest tactic to me is that people here are made to feel they are powerless to change things. We are not!

We must not bury our heads in the sand! Protest and march! Call our representative – daily! And whenever we have the chance to vote – do it! Every one of us must defend our democracy!

Connie Macomber

Pendleton