GOP is not giving the leadership we deserve

As a lifelong Republican of 50-plus years, I'm appalled at the actions of some in this previously grand old party. I'm not talking about the former president - plenty has been written about his sad legacy - but rather those who continue to support conspiracy theories and undermine the integrity of our sacred democracy. We deserve better.

As Republicans, we need to stand up. Elections are locally run. To propagate lies about election fraud is an affront to the thousands of local, dedicated, everyday people who serve to run the elections and vote. These are our friends and neighbors. They deserve better.

Our party has been overrun by lies. A pact was made with the devil in the name of defeating the perceived enemy, and we're paying for it. Opposing political parties are not the enemy - lies and conspiracy theories are. Debate is healthy, but let's do it with respect. Everybody deserves better.

We need to take back our party from the liars and conspiracy theorists to restore some decorum and respect for our party. Each of us needs to speak up and tell every elected official how we expect them to represent us - with dignity and a healthy regard for our democratic election process. Anything less and we're in jeopardy of becoming no better than a Third World country. Sound crazy? Well, history is replete with countries that have fallen to autocrats and two-bit dictators. Escape from the echo chambers and turn off the talking heads spewing hate messages. You deserve better.

Remember, our elected officials are charged with enacting laws for the public good - not to do their will. Use the newspaper's resource lists to communicate with them.

Our children and grandchildren are watching. They deserve better.

Ed Wiles

Naperville