Where the British monarchy ended in the colonies, a republic began in the United States. The founding fathers were aware of just how fragile this new government would be. This means that the power would rest in the citizens who would choose their representatives through voting.
As the story goes, when Benjamin Franklin was asked whether the new country was a republic or a monarchy, Mr. Franklin responded,
“A republic, if you can keep it.”
Throughout our nation’s history, our republic has been tested and even attacked. Our democracy, where the power is vested in the people, has, at times, been twisted and tortured by those in power whose primary calling is to themselves rather than to the people they are sworn to serve. Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence:
… that all men are created equal, … That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed.
So you ask, why do I need to know this?
Why is this important?
While the concept of a democracy seemed ideal enough, the election process was to be determined by the individual states, under the U.S. Constitution, Article 1, Section 4.
The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by theLegislature thereof;
The 2020 elections saw record turnouts, despite efforts to disenfranchise voters. As a result, there have been more than 160 proposals to restrict voter access for the 2022 midterm elections and of course, the 2024 presidential election. These proposals are not about fairness. They are about creating obstacles that disproportionately impact select communities, including communities of color. For example, the Georgia legislature recently has submitted legislation designed to restrict absentee voting and limit ballot boxes. In Arizona, these proposals include reducing voter outreach. And there are many other similar proposals designed to restrict access.
Our democracy is fragile.
We all saw what happened at the Capitol on January 6th. By no means am I suggesting how to vote, only that you should vote. Everyone should vote. This is not about Republicans or Democrats. It is not up to the politicians to keep our democracy intact.
The responsibility lies with the people … you and me!
See you soon.
https://www.dictionary.com/e/democracy-vs-republic/ https://www.ledger-enquirer.com/news/state/georgia/article248959814.html
https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/elections/voter-turnout/