To the Journal editor:

Some of the worst atrocities in human history have included individuals “going along to get along.”

Recall German citizens quietly accepting, ignoring, or even supporting the Holocaust. It is challenging to speak out against wrongdoing if you expect repercussions. Dilemma: courage or cowardice.

“There are none so blind as those who do not wish to see.” How many times has a group or individual used strategic ignorance to gain cover or provide cover for illegal, immoral, or irresponsible behavior? This is a simple mental exercise to push away information that gets in the way of our feelings and desires. Dilemma: pursuit of ignorance versus enlightenment.

If it is, “I am going to actively assemble the narratives which align with my desires, even if they are false.” Then it becomes …

Shrewd calculation. The epitome of politicians “watching to see where the wind blows.” Whether it’s for wealth, power or social standing, if shrewd calculation trumps personal ethics. Then it’s a dilemma of choosing ambition over principles, or vice versa.

Which of these dilemmas apply to the 5 current and former Republican legislators (Ed McBroom, Greg Markkanen, David Prestin, Matt Huuki and Beau LaFave for their press release suggesting the coronation of Donald Trump? Why interject your influence into a Republican primary that hasn’t concluded? Or prior to trials being adjudicated?

Was it social cowardice, strategic ignorance, or shrewd calculation?

It was honorable for Sen. McBroom to canvas the Upper Peninsula with, “There was no significant election fraud in the 2020 Presidential Election, and to think otherwise is either out of ignorance or malice.” But now he attempts to make a leap of logic by suggesting the coronation of a leader who has made huge lies in attempting to steal a free and fair election.

State Rep. Markkanen, it has been uncomfortable to see the shapeshifting of your position on this topic. From your amicus brief recommending the Supreme Court throw out Michigan’s election results to your statement made to me at the L’Anse Cafe in fall 2022: “Do I believe the election was stolen? No. Am I going to go out and shout it in the streets? What good would that do?” And now back to promoting a leader who encourages and honors violence.

It is abhorrent for fathers, teachers, men of faith and civic leaders to demonstrate its acceptable to abandon truth and righteousness for political gain. An obvious organized effort by you five to attempt to shape public opinion by glossing over severe behavioral issues to seek political wins.

It reminds me of the quote “There will come a day when Donald Trump is gone, but your dishonor will remain.”

How you’ve handled your dilemmas is on full display in public view, for the ages.