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In a letter to the editor, readers reacted to Joe Matthews' obituary on the perceived demise of America's democratic republic, expressing both sorrow for the perceived loss and criticism of leaders and citizens who are seen as complicit in the country's political decline. The letter laments the transformation from a system with checks and balances to what is described as a 'court-sanctioned dictatorial power,' while also emphasizing that millions of ordinary Americans are actively resisting this shift through protests, legal action, and political engagement. Despite the pessimism of some, the letter encourages continued activism and civic participation to defend the constitutional republic, arguing that surrender is not an option. The author calls on citizens to refuse complacency, join protests, support organizations fighting for democracy, and urge representatives to resist the influence of religious and technological elites. Ultimately, the letter asserts that saving American democracy requires persistent collective action from a vigilant public.