“You are a King then!” said Pontius Pilate.

Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into this world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me” (John 18:37).

Our salvation is founded on truth. We need to be honest about when we sin. If we want community, then we must be honest in our dealings with each other.

Why then are three lies attempting to shape the political future and character of our country?

Why does former President Trump and many of his supporters continue to lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen? It has been 3 ½ years since and their claims were rejected by every clerk and canvassing board in the nation.

There were over 60 court cases (including the Supreme Court) where judges said there is not widespread fraud.

Every state and federal legislature certified the election.

The one-sidedness of these facts is overwhelming. It is obvious that those that perpetuate this lie are doing so out of either malice or ignorance.

One lie spawns a second. The first lie inspired Trump supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump told his supporters to come to the Capitol: “Be there, will be wild.” His promoters all similarly encouraged what broke out.

The five hours of rioting resulted in the assault of 140 police officers, left 5 people dead, resulted in $2.7 million in property damage, threatened the life of prominent governmental leaders, obstructed Congress’ Certification of the Electoral Vote counts and tarnished our image as a thriving democracy.

The attempted insurrection at the U.S. Capitol may be the most documented crime in U.S. history. Cameras captured 15,000 hours of footage. Law enforcement collected 1,600 electronic devices teeming with communications. Citizens provided 270,000 tips including; videos, photos and social media posts. The rioters extensively captured their exploits on camera, posting hours of digital evidence of the rampage.

There are 1,221 cases associated with the breach of the Capitol. Over 749 cases adjudicated and sentenced. Seven hundred thirty have pleaded guilty.

For an incident that was on live TV, one that is so rich with evidence, how could anyone claim that what happened on Jan. 6 was a peaceful protest? Or that it was ANTIFA?

Two lies spawn a third. If those who still embrace the prior lies feel concerned that the scrutiny of their truthfulness and character may contribute to the downfall of their political objectives, then they may lie again. They may claim: “Attempts to hold those accountable for illegal actions is evidence of a weaponized justice system”.

How long will lies, partisanship and fealty to one man blind the visions of Republicans?

“How long? Not long, because no lie can live forever.

How long? Not long, because you reap what you sow.”

Please help to defend truth, democracy and justice. Please get involved today.

Eric Cadeau

L’Anse