To the editor:

I am profoundly convinced that our nation is on the brink of a transformative era. We are poised to forfeit our fundamental right to choose and cast our votes. The current administration appears intent on perpetuating the incumbent president, or the leader of the Trump Party, in power indefinitely, potentially after 2028.

This unsettling possibility incites a profound sense of urgency among citizens committed to safeguarding the tenets of democracy. The erosion of voting rights represents not merely a political concern but a threat to the very fabric of our society. If we relinquish our rights now, we open the floodgates to an era characterized by autocratic rule, where dissent is stifled and diverse voices are marginalized. It is imperative that we galvanize our collective resolve to protect our electoral integrity. Advocacy for reform must become our clarion call, inspiring citizens to engage in discourse, mobilize for change, and participate vigorously in the democratic process.

Each vote not only serves as an expression of individual will but also as a testament to our enduring commitment to liberty and justice for all.

As we navigate this precarious landscape, we must remain vigilant against complacency. It is incumbent upon each of us to ensure that future generations inherit a nation where democracy flourishes, not falters. Together, we have the power to shape the future and reclaim our right to a government that genuinely embodies the will of its people. Let us not squander this opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to democratic principles; the stakes have never been higher.

Dan Means,

Lisbon