THE AMERICAN CRISIS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

We can all agree the American body politic is in crisis. So much so that polarization has led to paralysis. We need to debate the essence of the problem. We propose the question is whether we want to continue as a democracy or as an autocracy. 

We submit the crisis is that we are shedding the original constitutional democracy in favor of autocracy, perhaps even theocracy. The evidence in support of this view is the minority control of the cult leader and would be autocrat Donald Trump and his followers.

The elected politicians have demonstrated they cannot agree on the following course. Assuming the people wish to govern themselves in a democracy, we propose a course of action to right the ship before it sinks.

We need a national referendum on whether to proceed as a democracy. That takes too long and is a daunting task. A vital election looms around the corner. Action must be taken now.

We propose that military and industry leaders meet and agree democracy is the path to follow. They should then sign a declaration of support for constitutional democracy and strong opposition to any form of minority or autocratic rule. All media should publish this "open letter" to all Americans. The letter should oppose specifically the election of any "would-be dictator." To the extent the military/industry leaders deem it appropriate, they should propose additional actions to publicize the letter.