We are outraged and alarmed by Representative Frelinghuysen’s intimidating action against an ordinary constituent, as reported this morning by NPR.

http://www.wnyc.org/story/frelinghuysen-targets-activsts-letter-boss/   

NJ11th For Change began in November as a grassroots group of citizens seeking open dialogue with their Congressman. What started as a few dozen people grew to thousands of active constituents. The press took notice, and apparently so did Representative Frelinghuysen. Today’s NPR story details the personal note he sent to a constituent’s employer highlighting her involvement in NJ11th For Change.  His targeted, retaliatory letter to Saily Avelenda's employer was intended to create an uncomfortable work environment for her. As a result, she was subjected to professional scrutiny about her personal political activities which directly contributed to her decision to resign.

Rep Frelinghuysen's actions are disturbing and alarming. He sent this letter with the clear intention of using his power and leverage as a Member of Congress to create a difficult situation for a concerned constituent. In that regard, he succeeded.

In a larger sense, he used his influence in an attempt to punish an opposing view.  How can democracy work if ordinary citizens are intimidated or their livelihoods threatened when speaking out? Frelinghuysen abused his position and acted against a concerned citizen for expressing a position he didn't like.  But in that regard, he failed, because our voices will not be silenced by his intimidation tactics.

If you share our conviction that his action should be condemned, please post and share through your own social channels.

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