As we now know, many people in the Trump campaign have either been caught lying about meeting with the Russians or have admitted it. Paul Manfort, Carter Page, JD Gordon, Jeff Sessions, Roger Stone, Michael Flynn, Jared Kushner, and even Mr. Trump himself. The administration is embroiled in this scandal and it continues to gain steam. I haven't yet heard a credible explanation as to why so many different members of a campaign would need to meet with a foreign country like Russia who has been our adversary on the world stage for so many years.

There hasn't been any proof yet that the campaign was doing anything nefarious in their meetings with the Russians, but the obvious question remains, if there was nothing corrupt taking place, why have so many in Trump's orbit lied about their meetings?

The implication by lying is that there is activity that needs to be obscured and covered up. Even if there wasn't, it will be very difficult to convince many people otherwise. Once you lie about it, you cross a point of no return.

There should be no normalization of our relationship with Russia under their current regime and it troubles me that many people are willing to overlook this situation simply because they have supported Mr. Trump and the Republican party. If you are a patriot and a firm believer in American ideals, then you will want an honest answer as to what exactly the nature of Mr. Trump's campaign's relationship with the Russian government is or was. Period. Allowing a foreign power like Russia to influence our election or our government cannot be tolerated, no matter what political persuasion you are. You should keep in mind that today they might be helping your side, but tomorrow they may be working against you. They have no loyalty to any one side, only whichever side is in their interest today. All Americans should demand an honest answer to what extent Russia has interfered in our government. Anything less is completely un-American.

R.J. Mitchell

Chattanooga