Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I retired to Mathews after serving in our nation’s military and foreign service. I have long remained quiet on political issues. No more. On Jan. 6, as yellow Gadsden and Confederate flags flew inside our nation’s Capitol Building, I was sickened, saddened and ashamed.

To those who still support the “MAGA” candidate, I ask whether their lives are so terrible that they endorse tearing down our country’s infrastructure. I ask them to look into their souls and hearts, to ask themselves, is it worth this?

Consider the insurrectionists’ rallying cry: “We hate socialism. Our election was stolen.” Take a look around. Our country, by the very essence of its government, has always had a socialist element and a mixed economy, together making it unique—and great.

To those against socialism, I ask, how would you replace government agencies and services: police, firefighters, public utilities, highways, schools, libraries, parks, hospitals, military services, a...