Editor, Gazette-Journal: I write not as a representative of any political party, but as a concerned citizen who believes in the foundational principles of our nation. Recent policies in the United States are straying from the spirit of American values. It’s important we recognize these troubling trends and address them together, or risk losing what makes our country great. America has always stood for freedom, liberty, and equality. Yet now we see government dishonesty and lack of transparency undermining public trust. Rights under the Constitution, especially those in the First, Second, Fourth, and Fifth Amendments, are being eroded. Free speech, peaceful assembly, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches, and due process are not partisan issues; they are the foundation of our Republic. Recent events have seen citizens lose their lives while exercising these rights. Such deaths are heartbreaking and a warning sign that our democracy is at risk. We must question...