Trump systematically destroyed important checks and balances within the Executive Branch. He rendered agencies dysfunctional by decimating staff and budgets, installing sycophants, and reversing long-standing policies and protective regulations. DOJ, EPA, State, CDC, and the US Postal service were among the victims. A steady diet of lies, misinformation, and threats energized January 6 and still cows officials who dare confront him.

The dysfunctional GOP-led Congress barely passed a budget, elected/kept a Speaker, and approved aid for our allies, becoming the new “Do Nothing Congress”. Insults fly freely and bi-partisan legislation addressing their stated priority–immigration–failed due to his opposition and a lack of GOP votes.

Our justice system is also crumbling. The overturn of Roe v Wade led the onslaught against long-standing precedents by a far-right majority SCOTUS that has signaled willingness to also attack access to voting rights, contraception, IVF use, and same sex marriage. It’s consideration of Trump’s presidential immunity case is astounding. Judges have slow-walked cases against Trump, effectively blocking accountability for 88 criminal charges. Scandals surrounding Justices Thomas and Alito have further shaken confidence in the Judicial Branch.

The above seems overwhelming. That said, our only hope lies with informed citizen engagement. Educate yourself. Help candidates. Speak out on issues. Vote for democracy in November, up and down the ballot. Otherwise, you may need to put flowers on its grave next Memorial Day.

Ellen Brady

Issues director, Women’s Democratic Club of Utah