Editor:

When Hitler rose to power in 1933, he dismantled democratic institutions and militarized Germany with the goal of conquering Europe. Utilizing tailored speeches, he swayed the populace to his agenda, culminating in the invasion of Poland on Sept. 1, 1939, igniting the European theater of WWII.

The Nazi regime perpetrated heinous acts, including the execution of 11 million deemed undesirable.

Hitler’s authority was absolute, supported by military officers and civilians who revered him as a national savior. WWII saw nearly 16 million Americans donning uniforms, embodying the American Spirit.

Yet, contemporary alliances with Russia raise questions about this spirit’s allegiance. How can individuals support a leader devoid of conscience and empathy?

Putin’s governance mirrors Hitler’s consolidation of power, reasserting top-down control in Russia. Under his regime, media and industry faced tightening restrictions, and loyalty to the Kremlin became paramount.

Personalized power centered on Putin himself, with dissent risking imprisonment or worse, as seen with Alexey Navalny. Putin’s actions, including mass kidnappings in Ukraine, led the International Criminal Court to charge him as a war criminal.

Since 1994, Russia’s aggressive actions include the Chechen wars, the Russo-Georgian conflict, and multiple invasions of Ukraine. These events underscore Russia’s intentions and pose a global challenge.

It’s imperative to reclaim our agency from partisan agendas, biased media, and unscrupulous politicians. We must rekindle our commitment to critical thinking and ethical governance, rejecting blind infatuation with leaders.

Our voting standards should prioritize integrity, patriotism, and dedication to serving the people, transcending party lines.

Let’s uphold democratic values in selecting leaders, embodying the principles we aspire to instill in future generations. Our commitment to these values serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward a brighter future for all.

Debbie Tanner

Robertson