First of all, congratulations on your unwavering commitment to the past. Not everyone has the stamina to be mad about the same things for nearly a decade, and frankly, that level of consistency is impressive. Historians will one day study this era and say, “Wow, they really meant it.”

Thank you as well for redefining patriotism. Who knew loving your country meant distrusting elections, courts, scientists, journalists, teachers, librarians, doctors, and occasionally the Constitution itself? It’s a bold rebrand, confusing, yes, but bold.

I also admire the flexibility. “Law and Order” was a strange slogan until laws and orders became inconvenient, at which point it gracefully transformed into “Well, technically.” That kind of ideological yoga takes practice — and the merch — outstanding. Nothing says “working class revolt” like mass-produced hats, gold sneakers, NFT’s and a donation link that refreshes every 15 minutes. Capitalism really said, “I got this.”

Most of all, thank you for reminding us that feelings don’t care about facts, but facts definitely live rent-free in your head. Otherwise, why bring them up so often just to argue with them?

In closing, please know this letter comes from a place of deep appreciation. Without you, we’d have far fewer reminders of why critical thinking, empathy and basic civics matters.

You are, in your own way, a public service announcement.

With warm regards and a healthy supply of irony, a concerned adult.

Michael J. Stubler

Altoona