To: President Donald Trump, The Maryland State House, The Maryland State Senate, Governor Larry Hogan, Rep. C. Ruppersberger (MD-2), The United States House of Representatives, and The United States Senate

Democrats: Stand strong against Tea Party Republicans

From the government shutdown to the debt ceiling, Tea Party Republicans have wreaked enough havoc on our country. Democrats must stand strong -- demand a vote on a clean continuing resolution to reopen the government -- and don't capitulate on Social Security, Obamacare, or other vital programs.

Why is this important?

I have family, friends and neighbors who, in one way or another, are being affected by this group of narrow-minded politicians. It has had a domino effect that has interrupted the growth of our economy to such an extent that I am fearful about my pending retirement. I've watched the value of my 401K go up and down. I look forward to reaping the benefits of Affordable Health Care and shrinking the "donut hole" but if the Tea Party and Southern Conservatives have their way, I anticipate a hardship once I begin to receive coverage for my medications that I sorely need.

The Tea Party scares the life out of me. They seem to be no different than a blossoming dictatorship that does not value the poor, children, minorities and women. They are holding us hostage and they have guns to back themselves.