As I sit here reflecting, watching that orange misogynist at the Reflecting Pool holding forth about algae, all I can think is this country needs less of his reflection and considerably more self-reflection.

And then I think of one word.

VOTE.

I am tired. Tired of the cruelty. Tired of the vulgarity. Tired of wondering how much more we are expected to accept before someone in his party locates a spine.

Apparently, those are perpetually on back order.

If you are comfortable with a government that treats women’s rights as negotiable, immigrants as convenient villains, and accountability as something that happens to other people, then perhaps you feel no urgency.

I do.

I want affordable groceries and confidence that the food on our tables is safe. I want America respected. I want immigration policies that recognize human beings as human beings. I want women making decisions about their own bodies without a committee of self-important men pulling up chairs.

I want elected representatives who remember that their job is to serve the public, not spend their careers applauding one man.

Meanwhile, here is something worth reflecting on. Forbes estimates that Trump is $2.7 billion richer than when he won the 2024 election. While families worry about their bills, his personal fortune offers a rather different picture.

Apparently, some people are doing just fine.

Please, when you vote, think beyond your own wallet, your own household, your own immediate circumstances. Think about the woman whose choices are being taken away. The family living in fear. The neighbor whose needs you may never see.

Their rights matter even when you do not need them yourself.

That should not be a revolutionary idea.

Vote out the Republican robots who have confused loyalty to Trump with service to America. Vote for representatives willing to question him, challenge him, and tell him no.

You do not have to adore every candidate. This is an election, not a marriage proposal.

But you do have to participate.

Being exhausted is understandable. Letting exhaustion make the decision for us is something we cannot afford.

Please. I implore you.

Get out. Vote for democracy. Vote for justice for all and the fundamental right to vote. Vote to make America great again because we are declining and humiliating ourselves daily.

Just do it.

VOTE.