The Election: A Test of American Democracy and Freedom
The 2024 election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in American history, not just for political control but for the fundamental principles of democracy and freedom. The upcoming election promises a fierce battle, with the Democrats, especially, airing concerns over the possibility of electoral tampering and contentious debate should the GOP win. The election, driven in part by the long shadow of Donald Trump, reflects a complex interplay between political strategy, public sentiment, and the ethical implications of governance.
Defining Election Dynamics
When Democratic candidates talk about the election, they emphasize their strategies to prevent any perceived unethical behavior and stand firm on winning fairly. They argue that the failure to prevent crimes, such as the January 6 insurrection, should have settled the issue long ago, but many Republicans are unable to acknowledge their own leader’s significant transgressions. This combination of mistrust and limited political acumen among Republican voters brings a level of unpredictability to the election dynamics.
Anecdotally Speaking
As a poll site manager, every election day is a mix of predictability and the unforeseeable. The role involves handling a long day filled with moments of strangeness and challenges. This year, a significant demographic is expected to tilt the balance: women. A record number of women are expected to vote for the preservation of their freedom of choice over their bodies, highlighting the importance of gender in the political arena. This trend underscores how personal rights and freedoms intersect with the broader political landscape.
Constitutional and Societal Assurances
Recalling a moment from the 1980s, I joined a friend for a party at which visitors from the Soviet Union raised questions about why Americans hated Russians. Explanations varied, but I pointed out that Americans hold leaders accountable for their actions, making them responsible for the government's shortcomings. This ideological principle is critical in the current context, where Trump supporters may blame allies and subordinates for broader issues, including those debated in elections. Considering that Trump's support base is seen as perpetuating the destruction of American ideals, one might argue that Trump supporters are not merely un-American but post-American, existing within alternative social and political structures that coexist or even thrive in the absence of democracy.
The Constitutional Struggle
Ben Franklin once said, "We've got a Republic if we can keep it," underscoring the precarious nature of maintaining democratic principles. For 235 years, the idea of a functioning democracy in America has been tested, with elites exemplifying ever-diminishing adherence to democratic values. They now seem more willing to abandon traditional democratic theaters, mirroring a broader trend of democratic erosion seen worldwide. As the Anglosphere's global power declines, this has exposed America to vulnerabilities. Whether the election results tilt towards Republicans or Democrats, one thing is clear: democracy in America faces significant challenges, and the consequences of failed foreign policy and actions post-Wuhan will be felt deeply.