I’m disgusted with family members who voted for a would-be dictator — especially after knowing their own father or grandfather fought in the Battle of the Bulge. It stems from a deep sense of betrayal, not just of political values, but of family legacy and historical sacrifice.

The Battle of the Bulge was one of the most brutal and pivotal confrontations of World War II, where American soldiers, including many young men barely out of school, fought against the rise of fascism in Europe. To see a descendant of that generation support a leader perceived to embrace authoritarianism, dismantle democratic norms and vilify institutions those soldiers died protecting can feel like a desecration of that service.

For someone who honors that legacy, this isn’t just a political disagreement; it’s personal. It’s about watching a loved one disregard the sacrifices made so that future generations could live in a free and democratic society. It feels like the memory of their father/grandfather, who braved bullets, snow, starvation and, at times, no ammo in the Ardennes to defeat Hitler’s army, is being spit on.

My disgust is fueled by a sense of moral outrage. How could someone raised in the shadow of that heroism vote for someone who disrespects veterans, undermines the rule of law, attacks the press, pushes hate, division and racism or idolizes autocrats? It raises painful questions about values, integrity and what family legacy really means.

It’s not just politics — it’s a painful emotional chasm where history, identity and moral responsibility collide.

James McGuire
Waldoboro