On April 17, LWV CEO Celina Stewart and President Dianna Wynn released a statement declaring that the country is in a constitutional crisis and announcing Unite & Rise 8.5: LWV Declares United States in a “Constitutional Crisis,” Announces New Initiative to Mobilize Voters.
How did we get here? Last February, in the face of sweeping and unprecedented executive actions, Leagues from all 50 states, and Washington DC, wrote to Congress demanding our representatives take action.
In March, our League joined with LWV Winnebago County to host a news conference and issue a call to action. Representing citizens of our combined districts, the presidents of the two Leagues signed letters to our Senators and Congressmen, urging them to exercise their Constitutional power over the executive branch of our government. We distributed 200 postcards so attendees could write to their elected representatives as well. Both of these nonpartisan actions aimed to defend and protect our very democracy.
Now we are more than 100 days into the current administration, and the President continues to issue executive orders and direct actions that violate the law and usurp the power of Congress. The inaction of Congress threatens the rule of law and the constitutional balance of power. Our liberties, our Constitution, and our democracy are at imminent risk.
What can you do to make a difference? Urge your members of Congress to stand up for our democracy today!
- Call or write to the DC offices of Senators Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, and Congressmen Tony Wied or Glenn Grothman using the League’s call script. Find their contact information here.
- Visit Members’ offices in our district to drop off a League memo and one-page handout. Include your name and contact information on whatever you leave behind, so they know you are from their district. Congressional offices are usually open during regular business hours. Bring these LWV resources to leave behind in congressional offices or share these talking points when you write or call:
Together we can make a difference. Democracy is in our hands. Thank you for taking action and joining with us to support the rule of law and our US Constitution.