This year, I was invited to deliver an alternative Christmas message, a gesture that underscores the importance of open dialogue in our democracy. The political landscape in America has become increasingly tumultuous, punctuated by attempts to silence dissenting voices. Recently, the President of the United States made threats against me and my organization, leading to the temporary suspension of our show. However, what unfolded next resembled a Christmas miracle—though it happened in September.

Across the nation, millions rose in protest against government overreach, affirming the foundational principle of free speech. This outpouring of public opinion sparked an unprecedented return of our program, stronger than ever. Ultimately, we triumphed, and the President faced pushback, restoring our right to critique those in power publicly.

It’s crucial to remember that the silencing of critics often feels remote, something that happens in authoritarian regimes like Russia or North Korea, but the reality is that it can also occur in democracies. The emergence of leaders who resemble “kings” can happen quickly. Recent calls for extreme measures, such as public executions, by our President demonstrate how swiftly political climates can shift.

As Americans, we take pride in our history of rejecting monarchy. Last year, we witnessed mass protests, termed “No Kings,” throughout the country. While we may not have issues with other nations’ monarchs, we grapple with the challenges posed by our own self-proclaimed rulers. In the U.S., we find ourselves battling against those who threaten the very structures that uphold our democracy—from the press to judicial independence. This crisis of civic engagement affects not just us but also our allies across the globe.

Despite the current climate, I assure you that not all Americans share these troubling views. We have a complex history with your nation, one that has evolved into a robust “special relationship.” During this holiday season, I urge you not to lose faith in us. America is navigating a difficult phase, yet we still hold deep appreciation for our democratic ideals and our friends abroad. Even the quirks we sometimes criticize, like cultural phenomena, reflect our interconnectedness.