1. United States
2. N.M.
3. Letter

I am writing to you as a deeply concerned citizen, alarmed by recent developments that threaten the integrity of our nation’s democratic institutions and national security. The increasing influence of authoritarian-leaning, ultra-wealthy individuals, coupled with the appointment of incompetent loyalists to critical positions, poses a significant risk to the foundational principles of our democracy. A recent article titled “America’s Future Is Hungary” highlights how Hungary’s Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, has transformed his nation into what the European Parliament now describes as an “electoral autocracy.” Orbán’s consolidation of power involved undermining judicial independence, suppressing free press, and enriching a select group of loyalists through economic cronyism. Alarmingly, this model has garnered admiration from certain factions within American political circles, who view it as a blueprint for reshaping our own democratic institutions. Compounding this concern is the recent incident involving National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, who mistakenly included a journalist in a Signal group chat discussing sensitive military operations in Yemen. This breach exposed critical national security information and underscores the dangers of appointing individuals based on loyalty rather than competence. The use of unsecured communication platforms for discussing classified information is a glaring lapse in protocol that jeopardizes our nation’s safety. I implore you to take decisive action to address these pressing issues: • Uphold Democratic Principles: Resist any attempts to emulate authoritarian models that undermine our democratic institutions. Advocate for policies that promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. • Ensure Competent Leadership: Support the appointment of qualified individuals to key government positions, prioritizing expertise and experience over political loyalty. • Strengthen National Security Protocols: Implement stringent measures to safeguard classified information, ensuring that all communications adhere to established security protocols to prevent unauthorized disclosures. The preservation of our democracy and the security of our nation depend on the vigilance and actions of our elected representatives. I trust that you will act in the best interests of the American people to uphold the values that have long defined our nation.