Letter to the Editor: While we still have freedom of speech...

Dear editor:

In a recent interview with Semafor, Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis stated, “Under normal times, in normal circumstances, I tend to think that the First Amendment should always be sort of the ultimate right and that there should be almost no checks and balances on it.” 

Then she added: “I don’t feel that way anymore.”

President Donald Trump talks regularly about how journalists, commentators and political actors should not be “allowed” to be so harsh toward him.

While our First Amendment Rights appear to be in jeopardy, I think and hope you and I (John Q. Public) can still speak our mind. So here goes:

The Trump Administration is continuing its rapid escalation into authoritarianism. One of the fundamental characteristics of authoritarianism is consolidation of power by a single leader or small group. What do Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, Pete Hagseth, Tulsi Gabbard and the newly appointed U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, assigned to prosecute James Comey, have in common? Not outstanding credentials or years of experience. Their only qualification is an undying loyalty to Trump. Quite the consolidation of power.

Other aspects of this movement include: control of information (spread disinformation to confuse the public and undermine trust in media); targeting minority groups (this fosters social division and solidifies support among their base); corruption (used to enrich the ruling elite and weaken potential rivals) and as mentioned above the restricting of free speech, especially against the authoritarian figure.

This administration wants the United States military in our streets, wants to control the media, wants to control higher education and wants to control the Federal Reserve Bank.

I am hoping more and more Americans, and especially Wyomingites, are starting to see the erosion of our democracy and will not stand for it. On Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, a nationwide “No Thrones. No Crowns. No Kings.” demonstration will take place starting at noon. There will be gatherings in Worland and Cody. This is an excellent way to peacefully have your voices heard.

I wrote a letter six months ago voicing my concerns about the current administration, ending with, “I pray that I am wrong.” I end this letter by saying I’m afraid that I am right.

Tom Laidlaw

Greybull