John M. Connolly’s Feb. 20 guest column [“A fascist regime?“] discussing fascism and the Trump administration brought to mind a quote variously attributed to Upton Sinclair, H.L Mencken, and Sinclair Lewis: “When fascism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross. ” In his 1935 novel, “It Can’t Happen Here,” Lewis introduces us to Berzelius (“Buzz”) Windrip, a politician who is an odious bully, surrounded by sycophants and unqualified cronies. In order to grab power “Buzz” governs by executive order (sound familiar?) and, ultimately, martial law. Buzz turns the United States into a fascist dictatorship.
Fascism is here in America. Across our country it resides in our pulpits, state governments, school boards, the halls of Congress and the White House. We have already seen the executive orders the current administration has used to accumulate power. Can martial law be far behind? Now is not the time to ignore the impending threat to our democracy.
Charles J. Dudek
Williamsburg