The pundits, talking heads and historians who see a movement toward a theocracy and who are proclaiming that Trump and his minions want to impose an autocratic regime upon the United States are misinterpreting the signals. Banning books, abortions and gay marriage, and creating barriers to voting, and all protected by a Supreme Court with religious zealots, allied with arch conservatives, is leaning toward a theocracy. The latest manifestation is compelling public schools to display the Ten Commandments.

But who is best suited to lead this theocracy? An unrepentant felon, who has violated almost every one of the Ten Commandments. Trump’s holding the Bible upside down is a perfect metaphor for what a second term would look like. Relying on religion rather than the Constitution for guidance and pretending to be a devoted and practicing Christian adds just another layer of blatant opportunism to Trump’s long list.

Idolatry to a living savior is more satisfying to so many Trump supporters, and rallies are so much more entertaining than church services. Historically, religious fervor has more staying power than any devotion to secular issues.

Betty Ussach-Schwartz

Southampton