I recently spent time in Gettysburg. It had monuments to soldiers from many states. Each monument showed the number killed and wounded. The monuments were scattered over what were killing fields. Men with cannons, rifles, pistols and swords. Men who traveled for months to reach the battle. Men who believed so strongly in their cause they gave up everything to join the fight called the Civil War.
Fast forward to 2026. The contrast is stark. America is not fractured. It is ungrateful and disagreeable. Our freedom and security is unprecedented in world history. Our idea of enemies is Republicans and Democrats. Politicians say they will be fighters. It sure has a different meaning than it did in 1863.
As we approach the 250th year of the US, and Memorial Day which remembers those who died so America could live, let us recall the words of President Lincoln….. “that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Our nation has survived many wars, and many have died. Including my namesake on the shores of Korea. Americans hold different opinions, but we are not fractured. We have some sacred rights, insured by our Constitution. We should all be grateful. We should focus on improving the lives of all citizens. Our government needs to be made up of citizen representatives, not career politicians. Over 80% of Americans believe term limits are needed.
One of our most sacred rights is the right to vote. On June 9th there is a primary vote. This often determines who will be our representative. I am running as an independent candidate to replace Lindsey Graham. I still plan to exercise my sacred right to vote on June 9. I will be voting for two men who are running as Republicans. Two men who represent me better than a career politician. Two men who I am actually going to vote for, not against. Because I like what they stand for. I like their demeanor. Their ideas. Their ability to communicate. I like who they are as people.
On June 9, I will be voting for Thomas Dismukes to replace Lindsey Graham and for David Atchley to replace William Timmons. It is time for new representation. And new ideas. We can avoid the bloodshed and acrimony of the past by getting back to referring to Congress members as “the gentleman”....... and mean it. Meanwhile, I will continue to seek signatures to get on the ballot as an independent in November to replace Lindsey Graham. I hope my fellow South Carolinians will exercise their right to vote, and vote from their heart.
By Don Louis · Published 2026-05-18