Caffeinated Politics

Our friend and realtor, Robin Guernsey, wrote a powerfully cogent and timely letter to her federal officials this morning, following the murder on Saturday of an American on the streets of Minneapolis. Before I get to the heart of this column, first, I need to explain the character of the woman who wrote the letter. I think it matters. Her life gives a foundation for the seriousness of what she writes.

Along with her husband, Will, another example of a sound character, they greatly assisted James and me as we became the sole homeowners in 2019 of our 1892 Victorian home on the Madison isthmus. They possessed the knowledge and provided strong assurances during the biggest purchase we ever made. Other than buying numerous cars, I had never ventured into such financing. Through it all, Robin had a can-do smile and, of course, her ever-present laughter.

In 2024, Robin was in the midst of dealing with breast cancer.  Her Facebook page was a statement of courage and candor. She was battling the real foe in life. (She prevailed in the fight and is the same spirited and conversational woman I have long known.) During the battle, James and I were invited to their home to watch Austin Butler’s most impressive performance in the movie Elvis, which grabbed international attention. It hit the theaters at a time when I still was not comfortable sitting among throngs of people due to COVID-19.  I very much wanted to see the production on the big screen, but instead waited for it to be released on HBO or Showtime. When it did, we received a phone call from Robin and Will. They wanted to know if we were interested in seeing Elvis in their home entertainment theater. Would We?  Well, Yeah!

At about the mid-portion of the film, Will paused it, so Robin could bring out—now get this, as it shows a real Elvis fan at their best—peanut butter and banana sandwiches! Utter Perfection.

As the evening ended, we were all standing at the door. I reminded Robin that Elvis reportedly always gave the last scarf of the concert to a very pretty woman near the stage exit. I then removed from my pocket a dark purple scarf I had obtained at an impersonator show decades ago and placed it around her neck. Then, in my ‘Elvis voice’, I said, “Thank ya for the show tonight. Thank ya very much”.

Robin and Will own and love six beautiful Icelandic horses and have used them to uplift other people in need of a smile or a brighter outlook. I interviewed Robin and Will for an episode of my Doty Land Podcast.

I provide this backdrop about the character of Robin to underscore the credibility and sincerity she brings with her on a daily basis. I can feel that in the words she wrote today.

In the absence of not knowing what else to do, I have written to my US Representative and Senator. It was easy to do. Please do your part. Here’s my letter if you want to cut and paste.

Senator Johnson,

I am writing as a Wisconsin constituent who believes this moment demands courage, clarity, and fidelity to the Constitution you swore an oath to defend.

This is now the time to support impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump.

Impeachment is not about party loyalty or political convenience. It is about accountability and the rule of law. When a president repeatedly demonstrates disregard for constitutional limits, democratic norms, and the peaceful transfer of power, Congress has not only the authority, but the obligation, to act.

The reasons are clear and deeply concerning:

•A sustained pattern of undermining democratic institutions, including elections and the judiciary

•Encouragement of political violence and refusal to consistently and unequivocally condemn it

•Use of public office for personal and political gain rather than the public good

•Continued rhetoric that divides Americans and erodes trust in our democracy

•Open defiance of constitutional norms that safeguard checks and balances

No president is above the law. Failing to act sets a dangerous precedent that future presidents can abuse power without consequence.

History will not judge elected officials by how well they protected their party, but by whether they protected the Constitution and the democratic system entrusted to them. Silence or inaction in moments like this is itself a choice and one that carries lasting consequences.

I urge you to put country over party and support impeachment proceedings. Wisconsin voters are watching, and history will remember where each of you stood when it mattered.

Respectfully,

Robin Guernsey

Wisconsin

Dear Representative Fitzgerald,

My name is Robin Guernsey, and I am a constituent in your district.

I’m writing to urge you to take immediate and public action on two issues that matter deeply to me and many people I speak with in our community.

First, I am asking you to use your authority in Congress to rein in ICE through oversight, legislation, and funding restrictions. The agency’s current practices are causing widespread fear, family separation, and a deep erosion of trust in government institutions. At minimum, Congress must demand accountability, transparency, and humane enforcement standards, and I want to know where you stand on this.

Second, I am calling on you to publicly support the full release of the Epstein files. The American people deserve transparency, regardless of who may be implicated. Shielding powerful individuals from accountability undermines public trust and reinforces the belief that there are different rules for the wealthy and well-connected. This should not be a partisan issue. it is a matter of justice and credibility.

I expect my representatives to stand for the rule of law, equal accountability, and human dignity. I would appreciate a clear response outlining what actions you are taking, or plan to take, on both of these matters.

Thank you for your time and attention. I will be watching closely.

Sincerely,

Robin Guernsey