Do you recall the story about the woman who asked Ben Franklin if our new form of government was to be a monarchy or a republic? His response: ‘’A republic, if you can keep it.’’ Well, it looks like the upcoming midterm elections will be a good indicator if we are heading toward an autocracy or continuing our democracy, as flawed as it can be at times.

 When economy and inflation are high, many voters blame whoever is in power and vote for the opposition party. That is a very simplistic reaction. Inflation, the economy, climate change, crime, immigration and individual rights are now worldwide problems, not just here. Saying that does not mean we can ignore or devalue personal worry or need. Instead, it is said to make midterm voters evaluate which party candidates have been working toward solutions and/or willing to work in a bi-partisan relationship to make our democracy stronger and more responsive to the needs of our citizens.

 Candidates who Donald Trump has backed or who align themselves with him have contributed very little in the way of suggestions worthy of consideration and debate. Instead, they have focused on blocking legislation designed to help our citizens get through these difficult times. They are more interested in complete power so they can promote autocratic rule. The more extreme MAGA members of this new Republican party seem to have as their goals prosecuting perceived enemies and rolling back legislation passed by Democrats or bi-partisan members of Congress. That means there will be more gridlock and nothing reflecting our democratic values will be achieved for our citizens as well as our allies around the world.

Our country has already had a taste of what happens when extreme right-wing conservatives ignore the will of the majority. Electing candidates who do not adhere to the rule of law and our Constitution will put our country on a slippery slope that will be very difficult to undo. We cannot afford to elect Trumpian candidates. Our citizens deserve better than elected officials with negative agendas and its resulting chaos. Please look at the whole picture before you vote.