Letters

As a constituent, I am very disappointed that U.S. Representative Lee Zeldin joined 125 other House Republicans in challenging the presidential election results that were certified according to the rules of each state. Mr. Zeldin owes us an explanation of why he is challenging the rule of law, i.e., the Constitution that he took an oath to support.

Mr. Zeldin, do you really mean to ignore even the legitimacy of elections that Republicans won? But what is especially dangerous is that this could be a new norm for losers not accepting election results, denying the legitimacy of the winners.

Mr. Zeldin, I have thought of you as a leader, but adding your name is a blow to democratic principles and norms. How do I explain that to my university political science students, whom I have taught that a hallmark of a democracy is competitive elections where candidates accept results no matter who wins, which is enshrined in our Constitution?

Here, the system worked — recounts were done according to rules. Our election system stood the test. Those disappointed always have an opportunity to compete again. That you don’t accept the election results means that something else is in play that has nothing to do with the election counts. That is what is so curious and dangerous. That has not happened before in our history.

In some unstable states, losers and their supporters actually begin revolutions or assassinations and take the office illegally. You, Mr. Zeldin, are putting us on that road when disgruntled people believe the political process is corrupt. That is dangerous for our democracy.

When we met last year at the Southampton Chabad’s annual dinner, you agreed that the president was unhinged and said you disagreed with many of his policies, i.e., on the environment and immigration. I know you receive funding from Trump donors, but where is your conscience? Your moral compass? You swore an oath to the Constitution to uphold the rule of law, not challenge it.

As my representative in Congress, how are you helping to preserve our democracy and rule of law in these uncertain times? Please exercise leadership and help restore faith in our system of government and not contribute to its slow demise.

Regina Axelrod, Ph.D.

Hampton Bays