They say presidents don’t make policy — mobs of angry people marching and chanting do. And once upon a time, when America was a fully-functioning democracy, that might have been true. I no longer believe it is.

Not only is this brand of protest a total waste of time now, it might actually be the exact impetus the Trump administration seeks so that it can label “blue” cities as war zones, then deploy troops, just as it has done in Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland and perhaps some day soon, a city near you.

The next nationwide No Kings rally is scheduled for tomorrow. I have already gotten the text messages imploring me to show up. I have even received a few requests to pitch in for pizza. Some of my closest friends and dearest colleagues will be attending. One friend said, “I don’t usually do things like this, but I can’t stay silent.” Another told me, “I gotta be there.”

Although I have the greatest respect for any citizen willing to work against Trump, I have decided not to take part in No Kings. I am a pragmatist, and standing by some busy road waving signs........

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