Threat of Violence Taints American Politics

 NC Senator Thom Tillis Targeted with Death Threats

By Mildred Robertson

This is despicable behavior. This is not the way politics is supposed to work. I hope that he and his family remain safe. In this hot political atmosphere, many must cope with threats on their lives and the lives of their families. There are judges, politicians, lawyers, media, and countless others who have found themselves in the crosshairs of violent individuals who feel they have the license to intimidate folks who disagree with them politically. 

While many politicians hide from their constituents behind form letters and Zoom calls, this is not the time for politicians to be cavalier in response to the voting public. However, these practices appear to be the chosen response to the constituent's concerns. Those letters likely only serve to heighten the political temperature. Constituents want to be heard.

I am a Democrat, but once the election was completed, I expected that my legislator would still want to hear from me and consider my input regardless of my party affiliation. When I contacted Tillis on legislation or political issues across the country, his response made it abundantly clear that the conversation was one-sided, and he only wanted YOU to hear his thoughts on the subject. He missed the point that he works for us.

If constituents take issue with his legislative agenda, he should take the time to truly listen and respond authentically instead of sending out form letters. I would prefer to get no response than receive the missives sent in response to my inquiries and complaints. (Tillis' responses at least attempt to imply that he hears you, unlike North Carolina Sen. Ted Budd's delayed and belittling responses.)

I reiterate, that although I disagree with almost every position Tillis holds, threats of violence should not be part of our political process. Unfortunately, our politics is inhabited by people who are either evil, unwell, or both. The mean, spiteful, and threatening discourse that leads to violence has been perfected by the man who currently sits atop American politics.

So I am sorry that Tillis and his family live under the threat of violence. He is not alone. Many progressive and conservative politicians currently experience this hateful turn in our political landscape. I wish for his safety and for others who have come under similar threats such as Nancy Pelosi, Kamala Harris, Joe Biden...

While I wish for his safety; I also wish for his wisdom and strength of character. I pray that he stands on what is right and not just what is expected by his Party and the man who would be king.