Jerry Ness, Nome

After being told by House Speaker Mike Johnson that the crowd would consist of anti-American, Hamas supporting terrorists, we were filled with trepidation and concern. Our minds were filled with scenes of violence and debauchery. Maybe Central Avenue would be ablaze. Perhaps the bakery would be being looted by crazy people scooping up glazed doughnuts and long-johns. I had visions of farmers throwing soybeans at local law enforcement. Our hearts were filled with fear as we descended the hill past the Bubble.

Imagine our surprise when we found a large, calm, and peaceful crowd lining the sidewalk on Main. Not a single Palestinian keffiyeh was in sight. Instead, I saw caps with seed companies’ emblems proudly displayed. American flags were proudly waved, and not one was aflame.

Instead of terrorists, I saw teachers, active and retired, expressing dismay at an administration that actively attacks free speech and expression. There were clergy who are concerned about families being torn apart without any semblance of due process. There were healthcare workers who are witnesses to tragedy as the administration and the majority party slash Medicaid, the ACA, and grants for medical research. There were farmers who are trying to “hang on” as the “Dear Leader” continues his personal trade war, while destroying the market for North Dakota grown soybeans.

There were people, young, old, and in between, who were expressing their alarm and dismay at a President who believes his power is infinite and not bound by the Constitution. They were concerned by a Congressional delegation which completely lacks courage. A delegation which remains silent no matter what act of craziness emanates from what was once “the people’s house.” The folks who gathered on Main chanted “this is what democracy looks like.” We could not have been more proud to be a part of this wonderful gathering.