Trump probably wants to change the national anthem himself — because he despises freedom and those brave enough to stand up to him. And honestly, maybe we should — because we no longer live in the land of the free or the home of the brave.
From academia to corporate boardrooms, Trump and his cronies have worked relentlessly to create a climate where independent thought is punished and blind loyalty is rewarded. Business leaders, university presidents and public figures are expected to kowtow to his every whim, fearing retaliation if they don’t fall in line.
Even worse, the current administration’s incompetence is met not with resistance but with silence from Republican leaders— many of whom appear more committed to appeasing Trump than to upholding democratic values.
This is exactly the environment he wants: one where power is unchecked, and dissent is silenced. If we are serious about being a nation that values liberty and courage, we need to prove it. That means rejecting authoritarian posturing, demanding accountability, and showing the bravery our anthem claims we still have.
If we don’t, “Hail to the Chief” might become our new nation anthem.
Shauna Wilhelm
Chehalis
