In our opinion: The GOP's failure at all levels

At no time in the years since Trump descended the gold staircase to announce his candidacy for president has it been more apparent we have a fascist in the White House. 

We sense a surge in political urgency by Brunswick County residents who are horrified that agents of our own government have staged deadly attacks on innocent Americans. The events of the last month in Minneapolis and elsewhere are by far the clearest evidence yet that the national Republican leadership is intent on ignoring the U.S. Constitution, sidestepping the rule of law and destroying the wellbeing of its citizens. There can be no doubt the GOP is replacing democracy and freedom with a corrupt, authoritarian and illegal regime.

The Republican Party at all levels seems unable or unwilling to distance itself from the lawless actions of its leaders. U.S. Rep. David Rouzer remains dedicated to Trump’s dystopia at the expense of his constituents’ interests. And as of this writing, Rouzer has said nothing about the deaths of innocent protestors in Minneapolis.

Meanwhile, Republican Phil Berger, the North Carolina majority leader in the State Senate, reportedly pushed through the latest loathsome gerrymandering proposal at Trump’s request – a quid pro quo that led to a presidential endorsement in a heated primary contest.

It’s the only thing Berger – desperate to arrest his party’s sliding support – has accomplished. North Carolina is now the only state in the U.S. with no budget to fund Medicaid, public schools and other vital statewide responsibilities. It’s a Republican failure of leadership, an abdication of responsibility, and a shameful display of partisan self-interest. Our GOP state legislators – NC Senator Bill Rabon, and Representatives Frank Iller and Charlie Miller – are united in supporting Berger’s lack of concern.

This general lack of urgency seems also to have infected our Brunswick County politicians, 100% of whom are registered Republicans. In a recent survey of citizens conducted by friends of Brunswick County, 91.4% of those responding said they were “very concerned” about the uncontrolled development sweeping our county. More than 87% are troubled about the quality of our water supply, including inadequate water and sewer systems and contamination by “forever chemicals.” Almost 75% are opposed to clear-cutting and open burning.

Yet, Brunswick County commissioners, their pockets lined with campaign contributions from real estate professionals and developers, seem incompetent or unwilling to address voter concerns.

The survey also revealed 58.9% of respondents want increased funding for public education. The Brunswick County school board is asking local voters to approve a $350 million bond issue. But members refuse to demand their fellow Republican legislators in Raleigh repeal the ill-considered private school voucher program. You either support public education, or you don’t. The hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed.

Residents have a right to be upset. At every level of government, Today's GOP, transmogrified by Trump, has failed. If you’re a dissatisfied Republican or an unaffiliated voter, the time has come to reconsider your loyalties and take a stand. Send a message: Join the Democratic party, the only major political organization that supports democracy, productive change, and a return to decency, stability and responsible governance. 

These are values we can all support. Today’s GOP has abandoned them.