For the past 250 years, our nation has enjoyed a three-branch system of governance that ensures there are checks and balances. Although this system is messy and often slow, it is the foundation of our democratic system. Today, this is being thoroughly tested.

The chaotic approach to the Trump administration in implementing Project 2025 has caused confusion, instability and anger. It does not matter if you are blue or red, the indiscriminate firings, freezes and cancellations have touched us all.

The Trump administration has alienated our allies, and we no longer have the respect of the free world. Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Oregon, has basically punted his congressional responsibilities along with many others, bowing unapologetically to implementing the president’s agenda. This is hurting all of us with the uncertainties and disruptions it is causing, not knowing what will happen tomorrow.

Good business practices do not include meat-ax approaches with no plan for what should remain. Leadership is not only what leaders decide to do, but how they do it. The current administration is failing on both counts.

Jeff Blackwood

Pendleton