I am a veteran. My country will always need me to participate in its democracy.

https://www.courier-journal.com/story/opinion/2023/11/09/veterans-day-democracy-duty-vote-election/ [login to see] 7/
"I always assumed our greatest adversaries were overseas. Yet, it’s become increasingly clear to me why the oath I swore as a young Army recruit in the Spring of 2001 made mention of a defense against threats both foreign and domestic. We’re a mere two years removed from an insurrection that was fueled in part by a commander-in-chief who refused to transfer power peacefully. Rampant tribalism, hyper-partisanship and a vacuum of leadership have ground our government to a halt. So, with Veterans Day here, let us consider the state of the democracy I and my fellow veterans swore to defend.

For more than three weeks, our nation's legislative body was in limbo, incapable of even electing a Speaker, never mind a budget or any sort of meaningful legislation. Shameless politicians from both major parties continue to cling to power, even as they face multiple indictments for corruption. Our allies are at war, anxiously standing by wondering whether America can lead and deliver on its promises. In short, Congress is rudderless".