The letters need to be taken seriously by both the governors’ offices and all those involved in the investigations of the case. Although the letters do not indicate any direct threats, an ultimatum was given, suggesting the possibility of violent actions. After a recent ordeal with the Michigan militia plotting to kill police officers as a revolt against the government, no threats should be taken lightly, as it never is known when a threat might be followed with an action.

Although the most recently publicized threats are coming from radical right-wing groups, threats come from all directions. Each threat needs to be taken seriously, regardless of political ideology. A group might not act on a threat, but law enforcement should act like the threats are real to ensure everybody’s safety.

Although a letter stating the concerns of the Guardians of the Free Republics is well within their rights, as is the ultimatum, the group is taking a peculiar path to changing the government. Forcibly removing an elected officials from office is entirely undemocratic. The group had a chance to make its voice heard through voting in elections and will get another chance to do so in the November 2010 election. The group should make its concerns heard but eliminate any threats.

The government is doing what it should in response to the letters. Alerting the police and allowing them to investigate to the best of their ability is in the best interest of the public. Although it would be nice if the issue was handled at an internal level, the governor’s office and the police cannot be at fault for speaking to the public now that the letters have become public knowledge.

The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security could have done an adequate job handling the threats without the public becoming aware. Once The Associated Press obtained the reports, the public had to be informed. Unfortunately, spreading word of the letters gives the Guardians of the Free Republics a soapbox and allows them to gain recognition and possibly inspire other groups to act violently.

Obviously, it would be preferable if such groups wouldn’t resort to threats. But as long as threats are made, enforcement needs to be taken to ensure no one is hurt.