Tyler Stratman spent years in debilitating back pain, unable to walk a city block without stopping — until a minimally invasive spine procedure gave him his life back the same day he had surgery.
by Colleen Reynolds OSF Healthcare
PEORIA - After years of chronic pain stripped away his active lifestyle, 36-year-old Tyler Stratman of Clinton, Illinois, says he has finally reclaimed his life thanks to a specialized spine procedure now available in Central Illinois.
Stratman, who once ran several miles a day while living in Chicago, says his life changed dramatically when persistent back pain began about two and a half years ago. What started as discomfort escalated into debilitating immobility.
Active lifestyle disrupted by chronic back pain
I don’t think I slept for probably four to five days...
The pain prompted Stratman to completely stop his habit of running four to five miles a day.
“Even walking down the street to get Starbucks, my whole entire body would just kind of charley horse. I would have to stop in between blocks and kind of do hamstring stretches and things like that. And you know I was only 33 years old. And so, it was a huge, huge part of my life taken away.”
An MRI eventually revealed a severe herniated disc in his lower spine. At its peak, Stratman describes unbearable pain and sleepless nights.
“I don’t think I slept for probably four to five days,” Stratman explains. “I would have to go out in the middle of the night. We have a treadmill and I would have to go out at like three or four in the morning to walk just to relieve something – just so I wouldn’t feel pain.”
Minimally invasive spine surgery offers new option in Central Illinois
Photo provided
Dr. Sohail Syed, MD
After exhausting non-surgical options including physical therapy, steroid injections and chiropractic care, Stratman was referred to neurosurgeon Sohail Syed, MD, who specializes in minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery.
Spine surgeons at OSF HealthCare Illinois Neurological Institute (OSF INI) Spine Institute perform approximately 1,000 spine surgeries each year, more than any other hospital system in the area and is the second largest program in Illinois. OSF HealthCare began using new minimally invasive spine surgery technology in June 2024, expanding treatment options for patients with certain spinal conditions. Since then, fellowship-trained spine surgeon Dr. Syed has performed 50 non-invasive spine surgeries using this advanced approach.
The endoscopic approach uses a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through a narrow pathway, avoiding the need for large incisions or significant tissue disruption.
Dr. Syed notes that in traditional spine surgery, surgeons often must remove bone and move a nerve aside to reach the problem area – steps the endoscopic technique can often minimize or avoid.
Endoscopic spine surgery reduces damage and recovery time
“Rather than going through all that, you can sneak underneath the nerve. And the endoscopic camera has an angle on it so it lets you look around the corner and work in the natural hole that exists in the spine without removing any bone or tissue and go right to the disc, remove the disc that’s pushing on the nerve or the bone spur and be in and out just using a one to two centimeter incision.”
Dr. Syed emphasizes that surgery is typically a last resort after conservative treatments fail but says Stratman was an ideal candidate due to both his condition and mindset.
“He was a great candidate for endoscopic spine surgery because of the type of disc herniation he had, the location, his age and his attitude,” Dr. Syed emphasizes, “He was really willing to do the work required after to get the best benefit from the surgery.”
Stratman ultimately chose the less invasive option that allowed surgeons to access his spine through a natural pathway while he remained partially awake. Though initially daunting, he says the decision became clear after years of suffering.
It offered him hope and following a two-and-a-half-hour procedure, the results were almost immediate.
Finding immediate relief
Non-invasive spine surgery
“It was an instant relief. The kind of like nugget charley horse I just felt like I had in my back for those years – it was just gone. I didn’t feel it anymore,” he explains.
Stratman was also relieved he didn’t have to travel to St. Louis or Chicago for the innovative surgical approach. He was back home the same day – seven hours after his surgery.
Dr. Syed notes that while some people experience immediate improvement, recovery timelines can vary depending on the severity and duration of nerve compression.
Photo: Courtesy OSF
Surgery removes whatever’s causing an injury, but Dr. Syed reminds people the procedure doesn’t repair injury.
The body has to heal on its own, and that can take time. For some older patients, Dr. Syed cautions it could mean a few months before they feel significantly better.
“While the nerve is being hurt, so is the muscle, so is the skin and for all of that to recover, it can take time – especially for older patients. So, if you wake up feeling great, that’s awesome. But if you don’t, give it at least three months.”
Now several months post-surgery, Stratman says he feels stronger and more mobile than ever.
“I’m better than I’ve ever been. I feel stronger than I ever have. My mobility is better than it ever has been. I feel more flexible and [I’m] sleeping fantastic.”
Stratman is not ready to start running again. Instead, he has adapted his routine with other forms of exercise, such as strength training and fast walking. He remains focused on long-term health.
For others facing similar decisions, both Stratman and Dr. Syed stress the importance of persistence, trust and informed care.
And for Dr. Syed, the ultimate goal is simple: meaningful improvement in patients’ lives.
More Healthcare Stories
minimally invasive spine surgery Central Illinois | endoscopic spine surgery for herniated disc | OSF HealthCare spine surgery Bloomington | back pain treatment without major surgery Illinois
If your next trip feels more complicated to plan than you remember, you're not imagining it. Fuel prices, geopolitical tensions, and overcrowded hotspots are all changing the travel equation - here's what you need to know.
Feature Impact - From beach escapes to international adventures, travel is still a top priority for millions of Americans, particularly during the warm-weather seasons. However, in light of evolving global events – and the changing travel advisories that often accompany them – preparation and awareness are key.
Travel planning should be exciting, and being a prepared traveler ensures you can focus on making memories rather than managing surprises. That means doing your homework before you go, remaining cautious and aware while you’re there and being ready to respond should the unexpected happen.
Photo: Beate Vogl/PEXELS
Geopolitical tensions and overcrowded hotspots are all changing the equation for travelers of all ages. Global travel remains popular but increasingly complex as a half dozen issues complicate what should be a relaxing and exciting summer of fun and exploration.
If you’ve tried planning a trip lately, you’ve probably noticed that the travel world feels a little different. Routes are shifting, prices are climbing, and travelers everywhere are rethinking how—and where—they want to explore. None of this means you should stay home. It just means a little extra awareness goes a long way.
Geopolitical conflicts are affecting flight bookings
Tensions in the Middle East continue to ripple across global aviation. The U.S. State Department’s Worldwide Caution highlights the possibility of sudden airspace closures, and some governments are warning travelers to avoid certain transit routes altogether.
Airlines are being forced to take longer paths around conflict zones, sometimes adding hours to flights. With Dubai International Airport—normally one of the world’s busiest hubs—shut down due to missile damage, a major link between Europe and Asia is offline. Add in rising LNG prices and jet fuel spikes, and it’s no surprise travelers are seeing more delays, cancellations, and higher fares.
Rising costs are reshaping the travel budget
The days of cheap post-pandemic travel are fading fast. Jet fuel prices have jumped more than 120%, and airlines are trimming seat availability on long-haul routes to control costs. Hotels and services aren’t far behind, with inflation pushing prices up across the board.
This has created a split in the travel world: luxury travelers are still going strong, while budget-conscious travelers are feeling the pinch. Many are leaning on loyalty points, choosing closer destinations, or shifting plans to avoid sticker shock. Currency swings—like a weaker U.S. dollar—are also influencing where Americans feel they can afford to go.
Travelers want meaningful, personal experiences
Even with higher prices, people aren’t giving up on travel—they’re just being more intentional about it. Instead of generic itineraries, travelers are looking for trips that feel personal and purposeful. That might mean exploring local culture, focusing on wellness, or even recreating childhood vacations.
The result is a “two-speed” travel landscape: premium experiences on one end, value-focused options on the other, with fewer middle-of-the-road choices.
Secondary cities and regional trips are having a moment
Photo: Adrian Limani/PEXELS
Visiting towns off the beaten path, like Canton of Bern in Switzerland, is growing among frequent travelers.
Overcrowded hotspots are pushing travelers to look elsewhere. Secondary cities and off-peak seasons are becoming more appealing for anyone wanting fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.
At the same time, the unpredictability of long-haul flights is nudging people toward regional travel. In places like Southeast Asia, intra-regional trips are booming because they’re easier, cheaper, and more reliable. Meanwhile, inbound travel to the U.S. is taking a hit—about one-third of potential visitors are rethinking their plans, and summer bookings from Europe are down 14%.
New rules and a bigger focus on sustainability
Destinations around the world are rolling out new regulations to manage tourism’s impact. Tourist taxes, eco-taxes, and stricter short-term rental rules are becoming more common. Sustainability isn’t a niche trend anymore—it’s a core part of how many places operate.
Travelers are also gravitating toward destinations with milder climates and greener practices, especially as extreme weather becomes more common.
Climate change is shaping when and where people choose to go
Weather patterns are shifting, and travelers are adjusting. Warmer springs and autumns are stretching out shoulder seasons, while intense summer heat is driving interest in “coolcations”—trips to cooler regions during peak heat months. Severe weather events are also causing more delays and cancellations, especially in areas near the equator.
Infrastructure and staffing are still catching up
Even with strong demand, the travel industry is still dealing with staffing shortages. TSA delays have become more common, and airlines continue to face long-term gaps in pilots and maintenance crews. Hotels are operating with leaner teams too, often offering housekeeping only by request and scaling back food services.
Tech is making travel smarter
On the bright side, technology is stepping up. Nearly 60% of travel operators expect generative AI to play a major role in personalization and efficiency. Biometrics and “super-apps” are also making it easier to move through airports and hotels with fewer friction points.
As you pack your bags, the experts at ALG Vacations recommend taking proactive steps like these to stay informed, protected and confident no matter where your adventures take you.
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto/PEXELS
Despite the challenges, travel is absolutely still worth it, just do your homework before you book.
Research Your Destination
Familiarize yourself with local customs, transportation options and any travel advisories tied to your destination, which often vary by region, not country. If you’re heading abroad, consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) offered by the U.S. State Department. The free service provides real-time, destination-specific updates about health, weather, safety and security, and makes it easier to contact you in case of an emergency.
Consult with a Travel Advisor
One of the most effective safety measures is working with a professional travel advisor. Advisors monitor travel advisories in real time, understand geographic nuances and regional differences within destinations and can provide verified information directly from destination partners. If plans need to change, your advisor can recommend alternatives and help manage rebooking options.
Consider Travel Insurance
Preparation also means protecting your investment. Unexpected events – from flight cancellations and changes in advisory level to medical emergencies and weather delays – can happen at any time. Travel insurance adds an extra layer of protection, helping cover eligible expenses and providing peace of mind. If you elect coverage, review policy options carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered by your plan.
Share Your Plans with Someone at Home
Before departing, provide a trusted friend or family member with copies of your itinerary, lodging information and contact details. This ensures someone knows where you are and how to reach you in case of an emergency, flight disruption or unexpected change in plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Travel to Mexico
Many of Mexico’s popular beach destinations – including Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres and Tulum – are operating as normal and welcoming visitors under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory, which encourages travelers to remain aware of their surroundings and follow standard safety precautions, but does not discourage travel.
Stay informed of changes to advisory levels through official updates from the U.S. Embassy and the STEP program, and consider these questions frequently asked to ALG Vacations travel advisors when planning your trip.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?
Travelers should follow the U.S. State Department’s official guidance. If visiting a destination in Mexico under the Level 2 advisory, which is a common advisory level globally that also applies to destinations such as France and Italy, exercise standard travel precautions.
Has the Puerto Vallarta shelter-in-place order been lifted?
Yes, the shelter-in-place guidance affecting Puerto Vallarta has been lifted. However, travelers should regularly monitor official sources for updates or changes.
Are Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres or Tulum experiencing disruptions?
Airports in Cancun, Cozumel and Tulum are operating normally. Hotels, cruise ports and tourism services are also fully operational.
Are Los Cabos operations impacted?
Los Cabos tourism operations remain fully operational, including airport activity, ground transportation and hotel and resort operations.
What are some alternative destinations?
For those who may be exploring alternative plans, consider these popular spring destinations both domestically and abroad:
Caribbean destinations including Jamaica and the Dominican Republic
U.S. warm-weather destinations like Hawaii and Florida
European island destinations such as Mallorca, Spain or Corfu, Greece
Travel articles you might also like
is it safe to travel internationally in 2026 | how to travel during geopolitical tensions | why are flights so expensive in 2026 | best travel destinations to avoid crowds 2026
After scooping up a ground ball, Adilynn Wilson throws a runner out at second in Unity's home softball game against Oakwood. The Rockets scored five runs in the second inning on the way to a 9-0 shutout on Monday. Want to see more photos from this game? Fill out our photo request form.
Unity 9, Oakwood 0
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GAME NOTES: Unity score five runs in the second inning in non-conference victory. Rockets' Reese Frye, Grace Bickers, Korina Finical, S Smith and Danika Eisenmenger finished with one hit each. Adilynn Wilson collected three RBI. Eisenmenger earned the win, striking out five batters and walking one.
Caydence Vermillion and Gracie Hanner combined for two hits for the visiting Comets. Vermillion threw 46 pitches in her two-inning appearance and Ashtyn Dailey unloaded 50 over the plate against the Rockets.
Champaign Central 22, Hoopeston Area 1
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GAME NOTES: Champaign Central tallied 19 RBI with Haley Helm leading the way with six. Helm hit three triples in her four trips to the plate on Monday afternoon. Molly Kloeppel went 4-for-5 and drove in three runs, and classmate Emmy Pentti delivered three RBI on two hits. Helm, who pitched two innings, struck six batters. Freshman Avery Ellison faced nine hitters, striking out four.
Camilla Linder took the loss for the Cornjerkers. Offensively, Peyton Irons, who was 1-for-1 tallied Hoopeston's only hit.
Fisher 12, BHRA 6
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GAME NOTES: BHRA scattered eight hits with eight different players. Junior Gentry Elson, who had two RBI, and Ella Acton delivered one double each in the loss. Eva Ronto gave up eight runs and six hit.
Central Catholic 13, Mahomet-Seymour 1
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GAME NOTES: Central Catholic exploded with an eight-run outburst in the first inning. Saints' Mackenzie Owens her team's offensive charge with two hits on three trips to the plate, delivering four RBI on the day. Allowing two hits and striking out two, Maddi Welch earned the win after four innings for BCC.
Mahomet-Seymour's Kate Severns went 2-for-2 with Presley Cox crossing the plate for team's only run.
More Sentinel softball articles
Attention softball coaches
Keep your fans and community informed. Send The Sentinel your game scores and player stats to sports@oursentinel.com to be included in our daily scoreboard and recaps.
TAGS: Unity softball team defeats Oakwood, Mahomet-Seymour suffers non-conference loss to BCC, Maroons win non-conference game on the road at Hoopeston
GAME NOTES:Mahomet-Seymour scattered five hits but couldn't manufacture the momentum needed put a run over the plate. Cole Henderson led the team's effort with two hits Paxton O'Malley, Austin Wike, and Ryan Pruitt contributed one hit each. Max Young absorbed pitching loss, throwing four innings. The junior threw 83 pitches, producing eight strike outs across four innings.
Davin Worman gave up just two hits in his five-inning command of the mound for the Wooden Shoes. He went 3-for-3, scoring three of Teutopolis' five runs. The senior pitched five innings, giving up two hits while striking out seven.
Champaign Central 0, Westville 0
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Urbana 13, Schlarman 3
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Armstrong notched the pitching win for the Maroons.
St. Thomas More 7, Cerro Gordo 3
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Hoopeston Area 5, Fisher 4
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Neoga 10, Heritage 3
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GAME NOTES: Kaden White, DeKarai Hill, Anthony Happ, Maddox Odum and Rylan White delivered one hit in Monday's non-conference road loss to the Indians. Kaden White contributed two RBI and Rylan added another as the Hawks fall to 1-4 for the season.
Mahomet-Seymour 12, Urbana 0
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GAME NOTES: Both Corey Johnson and Miguel Hernandez delivered two hits each but it wasn't enough to put runs across the plate in Urbana's home stand against the visiting Bulldogs. Alden Bridges rounded out the Tigers' offense with one hit.
More Sentinel baseball articles
Attention baseball coaches
Keep your fans and community informed. Send The Sentinel your game scores and player stats to sports@oursentinel.com to be included in our daily scoreboard and recaps.
Homes without basements require smarter, more visible storage solutions. From entryways to bedrooms, each room can serve as a storage hub with the right strategy. Effective storage in small homes depends on thoughtful planning and consistent habits.
Photo: Алексей Вечерин/PEXELS
SNS - Homes without basements need storage that works harder in plain sight. Simple storage ideas help each room hold daily items without feeling crowded. They also cut stress because you stop moving clutter from one corner to another. A good plan starts with the habits your household repeats every day. That makes every day orders more important in homes without lower-level storage. Shoes, coats, papers, toys, and cleaning tools need fixed places near the point of use.
Build a Plan Around Real Life
The best storage plans feel cozy and practical instead of stiff or showy. Start by watching where clutter lands during a normal week. Then place baskets, trays, or hooks where those items already stop. This method respects daily habits and removes extra steps. A bench near the door can catch bags, hats, and pet leads. A shallow tray near the kitchen can hold mail before it spreads. People keep systems longer when they feel natural during busy days. Storage works best when it supports life instead of fighting it.
Match the Container to the Item
Good results start with choosing the right solution for each type of item. The question of cardboard boxes vs. plastic bins matters more than many people expect. Think about weight, size, moisture, and how often you reach for it. Cardboard suits light, dry items that stay stored for short periods. Plastic works better for damp areas, heavy tools, or long-term use. Clear sides also help you spot what you own without opening every lid. When containers fit the job, shelves stay neat and easy to maintain.
More Lifestyle Articles
Turn the Entry into a Working Zone
The entry area can solve many storage problems before they move deeper inside. Even a narrow wall can hold hooks, a slim cabinet, and a small mat. Give each person one hook and one basket for daily gear. That setup keeps jackets off chairs and shoes off the floor. A closed cabinet helps hide visual mess in a busy home. It also gives guests an easy place to set coats and keys. A mirror above it can make the area feel wider and brighter. This small zone often becomes the control point for the whole house.
A home office can spread fast when paper and cords share living space. One strong rule can be to make your home office reset each evening. Put chargers in one box and files in one drawer. Use a shelf above the desk for items you need but rarely touch. Keep only current work on the surface so your focus stays sharp. A rolling cart can hold supplies and slide away after work ends. Clear limits help a work area stay useful without taking over the room.
Photo: Mücahit Koman/PEXELS
Maximize your storage by using wall space from floor to ceiling. There's plenty of storage space above you.
Use Height Before You Use More Floor Space
Walls offer storage space that many homes leave empty. Floating shelves can hold books, baskets, and framed pieces above eye level. Tall cabinets use vertical space and keep floor paths open. Hooks under shelves can hold mugs, headphones, or kitchen tools. This approach helps small rooms feel calm because surfaces stay less crowded. It also keeps needed items close without forcing you to add bulky furniture. High storage also frees room for walking, play, or cleaning. Once you look up, you often find space that was hiding in plain sight.
Wake Up Quiet Corners
A forgotten corner can freshen up your home once it gains a clear purpose. Add a narrow shelf, a lidded basket, or a storage stool. Corners near sofas work well for blankets, books, and charging cords. Bedroom corners can hold a tall hamper or a compact night table. Kitchen corners can support a cart for pantry overflow. These small fixes reduce pressure on closets and drawers. They also help each room feel finished instead of patched together.
Pick Furniture That Stores While It Serves
Furniture with hidden space gives small homes an edge. An ottoman can hold extra pillows, toys, or guest bedding. A bed frame with drawers can replace a large dresser. A bench under a window can seat guests and hide seasonal items. These simple storage ideas work best when each piece solves two problems at once. You save floor space, cut visual mess, and reduce the need for extra cabinets. That balance helps a home feel open even when storage stays close at hand.
Good storage comes from clear choices, steady habits, and smart use of each room.
Make Bedroom Storage Pull Its Weight
Bedrooms often store far more than clothes and linens. They may also hold books, work bags, keepsakes, and hobby gear. Under-bed boxes can handle off-season clothing with little effort. Drawer dividers keep small items from turning into mixed piles. A narrow chest can fit beside a bed where a wide dresser cannot. Hooks behind the door can hold robes, bags, or tomorrow’s outfit. Simple systems also make laundry and dressing much faster each week. Good bedroom storage supports rest because the room feels calmer at night.
Keep the Kitchen Focused and Light
Kitchens without basements often carry extra food, paper goods, and cleaning supplies. That load can crowd cabinets unless you sort by use and frequency. Place everyday plates and glasses near the sink or dishwasher. Store backstock higher up or in less central cabinets. Shelf risers can double the usable space inside short cupboards. Clear jars can group dry goods and make stock levels easy to see. That order helps meal prep move faster on rushed nights. A kitchen feels larger when each cabinet has one clear job.
A Home Without a Basement Can Still Feel Spacious
Good storage comes from clear choices, steady habits, and smart use of each room. Simple storage ideas give small homes structure without making them feel crowded or stiff. They help you use walls, furniture, corners, and hidden gaps with more purpose. They also keep daily items near the place where you use them most. Over time, that system saves energy and makes cleaning much faster. The result is a home that feels calmer, easier, and more open. With the right plan, every square foot can work harder for you.
TAGS: storage ideas for homes without basements, how to organize a small home without storage space, space saving tips for small houses organization, best furniture with storage for small homes, home organization tips without basement storage
by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator
Millions of people around the world will celebrate Easter on Sunday.
When I was a child, I enjoyed watching my mother color eggs. She would boil them, let them cool and the color them. Numerous family members would gather at my grandparents and we would hide and hunt Easter eggs.
Glenn Mollette
When I was fifteen, I became a Christian. Easter took on a new meaning. I heard the story about Jesus who came to earth and lived a sinless life. He was crucified on a rugged cross and buried in a borrowed tomb. I heard the story about how the tomb could not contain Jesus and on the third day he arose from the grave. He revealed himself to his mother, other women and his disciples. According to the story, He was also seen by hundreds more. He later arose into heaven accompanied by angels who promised Jesus would return some day in a like manner.
The story of Easter is the story Tiger needs, very badly.
The Easter story of the resurrection is the foundational truth of the Christian faith. Without it, Christianity is nothing but another religion. The resurrection is what empowered the disciples to die for the message Jesus told them to preach. If they had not seen and touched Jesus after his crucifixion they would never have had the boldness to die for what they knew was true. Jesus’ resurrection changed their lives radically. They were down, depressed and felt that their lives had been wasted. When they saw Jesus, everything changed. Their lives were filled with power and courage unlike anything the world had ever seen.
Savannah Guthrie has this kind of power. It’s not the kind of power the world gives. She has this strength and courage because she has truly experienced Easter. The risen Jesus is real and personal to her. Many people would find it impossible to face a national audience after what Guthrie has experienced through the loss of her mother. Yet, her joy and strength are in the real meaning of Easter. There is life after death. Surely she has died emotionally a hundred times in recent weeks, but she has strength in the person and message of Easter.
Tiger Woods is a global golfing champion and known around the world. Sadly, his life in recent years has been filled with car wrecks, driving intoxicated, arrests and many personal struggles. He has endured multiple surgeries, divorce and bad choices. He needs help. The story of Easter is the story Tiger needs, very badly. I am sure he needs medical help and serious counseling but he needs the message of Easter. He needs a dramatic change in his life.
The Easter story is about meaningful change and meaningful life. It’s about resurrection and life beyond the grave. If anyone needs a resurrection, it’s Tiger Woods. The story of Jesus’ resurrection and his message of love and forgiveness is what will save us, help us and see us through. It will also bring Tiger Woods back to life and see him through, if he will embrace the powerful message of Easter.
What about you? Have you embraced the wondrous message and story of Easter?
About the author ~
Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.
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TAGS: meaning of Easter Christian faith resurrection, personal reflection on Easter story Jesus Christ, why resurrection is important in Christianity, Easter message hope renewal and transformation, Christian Easter devotion and life application
This commentary questions whether Donald Trump has exceeded acceptable limits through a series of political and policy decisions. It outlines concerns ranging from pardons and foreign policy to economic impacts and domestic governance. The piece argues that many Americans are now feeling the effects of these actions.
by John Mishler
Mr. Trump pardoned hundreds of individuals convicted of attempting to subvert a lawful and secure national election by a violent assault on law enforcement officers. Did he go too far? In addition, he pardoned several individuals convicted of cryptocurrency manipulation. Gone too far? He and his family have received hundreds of millions of dollars with their blatant cryto-related business ventures. Has he gone too far? He has received a 747 jetliner as a gift. Gone too far?
He has encouraged the unlawful removal of thousands of federal employees targeted by Elon Musk/DOGE. Gone too far? He has politicized various government departments (e.g., Department of Justice, Department of Defense, etc.) and demanded they follow his whims and desires, rather than uphold state, federal, and international laws. Has he gone too far? With his own hateful rhetoric he has encouraged ICE to brutalize innocent citizens and lawful immigrants, even allowing the murder of said American citizens, in addition to the deaths of immigrants held in federal detention centers. Gone too far?
He has torn down the East Wing of the White House, without proper approvals, to be replaced by a hideous, gigantic ballroom. Has he gone too far? He has “added” his name to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Gone too far?
He has allowed two totally unqualified individuals (two real estate brokers) to negotiate extremely important treaties with Russia/Ukraine, Iran, and Gaza/Israel. Has he gone too far? He has disrupted important relationships the United States has with NATO and the European Union. Gone too far?
His “Big, Beautiful Bill,” has eliminated healthcare subsidies for millions of hardworking Americans
He has “pressured” law firms, colleges and universities, and media companies to “follow” his desire and eliminate DEI policies. Gone too far? He has instructed the Department of Justice to put forth criminal/civil charges against innocent political opponents without evidence of unlawful conduct. Has he gone too far?
His name has appeared in numerous documents related to the Epstein files, including an alleged incident of sexual assault against a minor. Has he gone too far? In addition, he is hindering the full and complete release of all documents, files, videos, photographs, and other pertinent materials related to the Epstein investigation. Gone too far?
Trump has “added on" additional taxes on imported goods, paid for by US citizens, by virtue of his imposed tariffs placed on products from foreign countries. Gone too far? His “Big, Beautiful Bill,” has eliminated healthcare subsidies for millions of hardworking Americans, as well as SNAP benefits. Gone too far?
Trump’s “unnecessary” war with Iran has resulted in the loss of lives of US service members, caused chaos in the Middle East, and significantly raised the price of gasoline, heating oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and other petroleum-based products. Has he finally gone too far? Did he reach the tipping point…. yes. BUT why? For most Americans, all of the “misadventures” listed above, happened to other individuals/organizations and did not significantly/directly impact their own lives. However, as a result of his unjustified conflict/excursion/war, petroleum products NOW suddenly cost more and are rising on a daily basis - NOW, on a personal level, most Americans feel the “pain" of Mr. Trump’s foolish behavior.
Ergo, too many Americans have been “asleep” during the initial stages of Mr. Trump’s second term. BUT, now suddenly “personally feeling” the pain of higher prices at the gas pumps, soon to be followed by higher prices for most goods relying on gasoline/petroleum products, we have begun to notice how “tainted” Trump’s tenure as president has been.
Is there a remedy for his unrelenting toxic actions? Yes, the upcoming midterm elections, where Americans can elect candidates who care more about their constituents, than following the whims of Mr. Trump and his sycophants (“This year’s political candidates: carefully examine their party affiliation,” Storm Lake Times Pilot, 02/06/2026).
So, we can reclaim our Democracy in the coming election, BUT only if we support worthwhile candidates BY VOTING! Maybe a new cohort of honest and law-abiding US Senate and House members can thwart any further “how far is too far” misadventures by Mr. Trump.
About the author ~
John M. Mishler was a former Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Professor of Basic Life Sciences, Medicine, and Pharmacology at the University of Missouri. He currently resides in Harpswell, Maine.
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TAGS: Donald Trump political commentary 2026, opinion on Trump policies and midterm elections, analysis of Trump economic and foreign policy impact, voter response to political controversies United States, midterm elections importance voter participation opinion
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