I’m optimistic about the 2024 elections, as I’ve written. But I’m fearful for our nation.

Because of Trump and MAGA.

It’s clear he will summon his mobs to violence, as he did January 6, 2021.

He has promised “bedlam” if courts hold him to account for crimes.

Already, there have been “swatting” calls, bomb threats at state capitals and talk of assassinating Democratic congressmen.

A national poll found a disturbing level of support for political violence, with nearly a quarter of Americans (23%) agreeing that “because things have gotten so far off track, true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.”

One-third of Republicans (33%) agree with that statement, compared with 22% of independents and 13% of Democrats.

Combine that with pessimism about the future and rising support for authoritarianism, and you have a toxic brew waiting to explode.

Trump will gladly throw the match.

He’d rather burn down the country than lose again.

This year will test Americans.

I believe that, as through our history, the trials and trouble will bring out our best.

But I fear we will suffer through the worst.