To the editor: Just a couple of months into his presidency, Donald Trump seems to have plunged the United States into a constitutional crisis. What does this really mean? In terms of legal language, it implies that the principles of law, along with our constitutional freedoms and the separation of powers, are being undermined.
To put it plainly, it feels like we’re headed towards an authoritarian regime. The legal systems, the courts, the rules, and doctrines that have historically maintained our freedom and equality are being disregarded. The safeguards that Congress and the judiciary should provide are rapidly diminishing, which is quite apparent.
The current president brands judges who oppose his views as “crooked” and champions the idea of impeaching them. He seems to overlook the fundamental fact that judges are appointed to remain unaffected by political influences, not to be swayed by them. His administration has also attacked legal professionals and firms solely because they stand up for his political opponents. The right to legal counsel shouldn’t be compromised or targeted against attorneys upholding their clients’ rights.
Essentially, what’s unfolding before our eyes is a dismantling of the liberties, fairness, protections, and well-reasoned policies that define America — including our health, safety, national defense, and financial security. The very essence of our country is at risk, unless a significant and effective response can be mobilized to counter these changes. This is the critical moment we face!
Michael Harvey Miller, Pasadena The writer is an attorney…
