To the editor:

It was a basic principle of the American experiment that it was to be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. This American type of government would not function efficiently, and perhaps might not even survive, if the people did not maintain a constant vigilance and thereby develop what Jefferson called an intelligent and informed electorate.

In a speech by Samuel Langdon before the Massachusetts legislature in 1788. He declared:

From year to year be careful in the choice of your representatives and the higher powers of government. Fix your eyes upon men of good and understanding and known honesty; men of knowledge; improved by experience; men who fear God and hate covetousness; who love truth and righteousness, and sincerely wish for the public welfare… Let not men openly irreligious and immoral become your legislators … If the legislative body are corrupt, you will soon have bad men for counselor, corrupt judges, unqualified justices, and countenance to turbulent men, who wish to distinguish themselves and rise to power by forming combinations and exciting insurrections against government …”

We the people have ignored our responsibilities as owners of our country and are now living the results. Is this the America you want? Open borders, corruption, lawlessness, chaos, centralized power in DC and State Capitals, or freedom, prosperity and peace? It’s up to you.

Roger Baumann

Wabasso