The eruptions in Madison and elsewhere have the potential to stall this shift in attitudes because these same Americans emphatically do not want violent chaos. They want to make our justice system more just—but they reject mob rule.

And Donald Trump is going to do everything he can to bind the peaceful protests against police brutality to the criminals who assault innocents, deface and destroy public property, and generally wreak havoc.

If he succeeds, it will squander the profound opportunity the peaceful protesters have given our country. You can stop him by reminding America that being asked to choose between law and order on one hand and reform on the other is a false choice.

You can remind America that you and the Democratic party stand against the mob and are perfectly capable of both enforcing order and making change.

But you should do it soon. Before Trump and his demagogues get to work.