Alaskan Resident Pens Scathing Letter on Current US Leadership

John Schoen expresses deep distress over the president's actions and calls for change in the 2028 election.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 1:07pm

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In a letter to the Anchorage Daily News, 78-year-old Alaska resident John Schoen voiced his deep concerns over the current administration's leadership, describing the president's behavior as untruthful, narcissistic, and focused more on his own ego than the nation's democratic principles and the best interests of all citizens. Schoen urged his fellow Alaskans to become informed and vote in the upcoming midterm and 2028 presidential elections to enact the essential changes needed to sustain the country's democratic future.

Why it matters

This letter reflects the growing discontent and alarm among some Americans over the current administration's policies and the president's conduct, which they view as a departure from the country's democratic norms and principles. As the 2028 presidential election approaches, this letter highlights the importance of civic engagement and informed voting to address the concerns of citizens who feel the nation is headed in the wrong direction.

The details

In his letter, Schoen expressed distress over the president's rejection of scientific research, racial bias against minorities, and the use of armed federal agents in conflict with state and local governments. Schoen also criticized the president's disregard for international laws and treaties, as well as his abandonment of long-standing alliances. Schoen contrasted the president's behavior with the attributes he believes effective leadership should embody, such as honesty, objective decision-making, and collaborative team-building.

  • Schoen's letter was published on February 1, 2026.
  • The president's interview with the New York Times was earlier that month.

The players

John Schoen

A 78-year-old resident of Anchorage, Alaska who has proudly called the United States home for his entire life.

President Trump

The current president of the United States, whose actions and behavior Schoen strongly criticizes in the letter.

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What they’re saying

“When interviewed by the New York Times earlier this month on what constrains his international actions as commander in chief, the president stated that he was constrained only by his 'own morality,' not international laws or treaties.”

— President Trump

What’s next

Schoen urges his fellow Alaskans to become informed and vote in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections and the 2028 presidential election to enact the essential changes needed to sustain the country's democratic future.

The takeaway

This letter highlights the growing concerns among some Americans over the current administration's perceived departure from democratic norms and principles, underscoring the importance of civic engagement and informed voting to address these issues in future elections.