Trump has failed in his oath to U.S.

Demonstrating great courage, Will Hurd, Texas Republican congressman and former CIA undercover officer, states clearly and unequivocally that the president is being manipulated by Russian intelligence.

After President Trump’s disgraceful and shocking performance before the entire world, supporting Vladimir Putin’s word against his own intelligence agencies, there can be no doubt that he is unfit for office and is influenced by, or worse, a pawn of a dangerous Russian despot.

Trump has failed his oath to protect and defend our country and our Constitution. As a result, there is doubt that free and fair elections can be held.

Trump is fulfilling

Putin’s wildest wishes: the destruction of western democracies and their alliances. He has destroyed all credibility and respect from those sworn to protect us: our allies. But he is totally enamored by a thug who murders, poisons and incarcerates all critics.

What holds American democracy together is our trust in each other and in our democratic systems. Clearly, Trump is destroying this. Hopefully soon, Special Counsel Robert Mueller will expose Trump’s motivation.

The Republicans in Congress must take the necessary steps, for they are responsible for protecting American democracy. Otherwise, their silence is tantamount to complicity and cover-up. Their oath and loyalty belong to the people, not to the party. RONALD SLOOP, PALM BEACH GARDENS