It’s OK to be afraid, but…

The outrages come so fast and frequently these days, it’s hard to keep track of them all. Before we got into an unnecessary and potentially devastating war with Iran, we were talking about protests and the dangers that come with them. I experienced those dangers firsthand when I attended a town hall with US Representative Eric Swalwell Thursday night in Mission Viejo.

What could be so dangerous about listening to a politician answer questions from voters? A group of Trump supporters had gathered outside, not just to protest, but to attempt to disrupt the meeting. The back window of the meeting hall was against a patio. They assembled there shouting, chanting, blaring sirens, and singing the National Anthem off key. Although the curtains were closed, their massive Trump flags were visible in the gaps. When the town hall was over, they formed a gauntlet by the front entrance. They waved their tall Trump flags and shouted, “Are you ready for the deportations?” One guy in a “White Men for Trump” t-shirt was taking picture of us as we walked by. Fortunately, Sheriff’s Department officers kept everything peaceful. But if they weren’t, those Trump supporters could have gone all January 6.