Dear Editor:

To boost our sagging spirits after a tumultuous week, my husband and I joined our neighbors in the Wiscasset 4th of July parade. In our mid-80s, we’re grateful to still enjoy a brisk walk.

Holding banners to proclaim our loyalty to Democrats, I was, frankly, apprehensive that our reception along the parade route might be cool … or worse. We were astonished and delighted to be cheered many times as we passed. People waved, clapped, grinned with us as they clearly welcomed and supported our “Vote Blue - Save Democracy” message.

They seemed to understand that, alas, this is precisely what the election next November will be about. When Democrats win, democracy endures. If Republicans win, democracy will be seriously threatened.

If you doubt this, have a look at Project 2025—the 900+ page Republican “war plan” to dismantle the U.S. government, endow the presidency with dictatorial powers, end democracy as we know it. It is real, it is deadly serious, and every American should read it.

Susan G. Stedman

Westport Island