Since taking office, Donald Trump has repeatedly shown a disregard for the Constitution, the rule of law, and the foundational principles of American democracy. He has defied lawful court orders, issued executive actions that overstep constitutional boundaries, and used the powers of his office to intimidate political opponents and retaliate against public servants who upheld their duty to the truth.

His administration has eroded the system of checks and balances that guards against tyranny. It has pressured federal agencies to target perceived enemies, withheld due process for citizens and non-citizens alike, and undermined faith in free and fair elections. These actions are not just abuses of power; they are deliberate efforts to dismantle the very framework of democratic governance.

What makes this crisis even more alarming is that Congress, the branch of government designed to serve as a check on the executive, is failing to act. Many members have abdicated their constitutional duty, choosing party loyalty or political convenience over their sworn oath to defend the Constitution "against all enemies, foreign and domestic".

In response, we have formed Ragtag: a bipartisan group of concerned citizens led by veterans who have sworn that same oath. Like the original ragtag band of patriots who fought for this nation s founding ideals, we come from diverse backgrounds but are united in our belief that democracy must be defended, not just in words, but in action.

We are calling on Congress to uphold its role as a co-equal branch and resist the unlawful overreach and authoritarian impulses of this administration. And we re calling on fellow Americans to stand with us.

If you believe our democracy is worth fighting for, join us at https://ragtag.live. Let your representatives know that if they will not defend the Constitution, we will hold them accountable at the ballot box.