The following appeared as a letter to the editor in the online edition of the Howard County Times:
As a lifelong Republican, one who deeply loves the United States of America and the freedoms it affords every American, it was disheartening to witness Americans stage an insurrection in the U.S. Capitol in a misaligned defense of a Republican President. Make no mistake, these actions were incited by the President himself.
What took place in Washington, D.C. on January 6, 2020 was a dark day for America, but it was perhaps even darker for Republicans. The day, and the organizing events that led up to it, was unacceptable and must be condemned. I applaud Governor Hogan for speaking out, and I join with the Governor in asking the President to resign so our nation can avoid the impeachment process and begin to heal.
The Republican Party is at a crossroads. Regardless of whether President Trump resigns, is impeached, or finishes his term, he will be gone by January 20. The GOP needs to recommit itself to being the party of Lincoln and Reagan – focusing less on conservative celebrity and outrage – and recenter on the party’s guiding principles of smaller government, limited regulations, and freedom.
I know it may seem hard to believe after these last four years, but there are still plenty of Republicans that strongly believe in honesty, integrity and both personal and economic freedom. These guiding principles have helped bring our country through many tough times, and I believe they will continue to help us now.
–Allan Kittleman