Why Democrats Don't Want Trump to Run: Protecting Constitutional Integrity vs. Political Gambles

Among the undercurrents of the 2020 election results is a fascinating conundrum: would Democrats prefer a spirited challenge from Donald Trump? The reasons for this paradoxical viewpoint are multifaceted and deeply rooted in concerns over Constitutional integrity and the enduring trust in the democratic process.

Would Democrats Want Trump to Run?

At first glance, the idea that Democrats are praying Trump will run may seem counterintuitive. However, the sentiment can be interpreted in a broader context. If Trump were to run, it would provide a chance to showcase and defend the legitimacy of the election results, potentially resolving lingering doubts and strengthening democratic norms. Yet, the predominant sentiment is that he shouldn't. Such reluctance is not merely born out of partisan politics but is grounded in a larger concern for maintaining the sanctity of the Constitution.

No to a 2nd Term for Biden

It's important to consider the second premise: are Democrats genuinely fearful that the "will of the people" wouldn't return Joe Biden for a second term? The answer is resoundingly no. Donald Trump, despite his substantial influence and vocal support, has never garnered the popular vote. His 2020 defeat by Joseph R. Biden Jr. represented a significant margin—first losing by 3 million votes and then by 8 million. These electoral disparities reflect the growing disaffection with his leadership, a trend that continues to strengthen.

Setting a Bad Precedent

Allowing Trump to run again would likely set a dangerous precedent, undermining the bedrock principles of democratic governance. There's a constitutional threshold that Trump cannot meet, as his actions and rhetoric have made him ineligible. Furthermore, permitting him to run could pave the way for the erosion of constitutional values, challenging the very framework on which our democracy is built. This can be seen through the following specific instances where his behavior and words have been decidedly undemocratic:

He repeatedly claimed he would be a dictator, even before taking office. This was never about justice for others but about maintaining power at all costs. He alleged that he was immune from prosecution during his term, a claim that defies the rule of law. He argued for the suspension of the Constitution to assert control, again, a naked disregard for legal principles. He challenged the election results and elections themselves, resorting to fake electors to undermine the democratic process. During his impeachment, he attempted to evade legal accountability both during the initial trial and subsequent proceedings.

The Unambiguous Impact

Each of these instances underscores the primary concerns: Trump's actions consistently prioritize his personal interests over the will of the people. He has shown a blatant contempt for constitutional law and democratic norms, providing a fait accompli that any of his potential successors would inherit, potentially leading to further erosion of these fundamental principles.

Conclusion and Reflections

The underlying issue here is whether the faith in the will of the people would indeed return Joe Biden for a second term. While some Democrats may be resigned to accepting the reality that Trump's base has grown, the broader sentiment is a deepseated fear that the legal and ethical standards that previously guided democratic elections could be irreparably damaged if he were to run again. This isn't just a matter of political strategy, but a serious concern for the long-term viability of our democratic institutions.

The election of 2020 served not only as a reflection of the public will but also as a stark lesson in the importance of constitutional integrity. By bringing these issues to the forefront, we ensure that future elections are subject to scrutiny, transparency, and adherence to the laws that guarantee the rule of law.