Dear Editor,
As a former US Naval Officer, I respect Rep. Derrick Van Orden’s military service. His record in Congress however, raises concerns about who he really serves. I think Van Orden is not following the oath of his current position.
Compare the Oath of Enlistment Rep. Van Orden took numerous times to the Oath of Office he took as a member of Congress. Oath of Enlistment: “I … will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic … and … obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me … ” Oath of House of Representatives: “I … will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic … ” The Congressional oath tasks members to serve the Constitution as a check on the power of the President because the Legislative branch is co-equal to the Executive branch. Conversely, the Oath of Enlistment specifically requires members to obey the orders of the President.
Unfortunately, Rep. Van Orden’s congressional record and statements reflect obedience to President Trump over the tenets of the Constitution. Van Orden has consistently backed Trump’s agenda, including supporting Trump’s tariffs and his illegal war of choice with Iran. Furthermore, he and his party have failed to defend the Constitution by supporting Trump’s on-going attempts to violate the First, Fourth, Fifth and Fourteenth amendments.
It’s time to replace Rep. Van Orden. His unwavering submission to the whims of President Trump does not uphold his Congressional Oath of Office, nor does it serve the best interests of the people of the 3rd district of Wisconsin. Van Orden reiterated that support again recently on Inside Politics, stating ” I am fully supportive of President Trump. ” We need to move on to someone who will stand up for us.
Brian Whisenant Platteville, WI