Protect Our Fragile Democracy. Vote for a Democrat

This may be a bit long, but please do read this. Next Tuesday is Election Day. It’s become a cliche almost every time we have national elections: this may be the most important election of our lifetime. At the risk of adding to the chorus, I really do believe that in this case. Democracy is extremely fragile. It is not certain for tomorrow. It may be written into law, into our Constitution, but it requires us to constantly renew it with each election, and with every generation. Our participation in it is how we protect it. Our intent in protecting certain values requires us to have them in mind when we make our choices.

This morning, a report came out describing how the president wants to end a constitutional protection by simple executive order. Pushing aside how ridiculous that is, even the idea illustrates the path of a dangerous direction. He is testing it. He has repeatedly tested assaults on principles that we used to be united in protecting – even fought wars in defense of. Right now, we have a government that has been unwilling to offer a legitimate firewall against these attacks. They will continue in increments until we no longer recognize our society. This is how fascist dictators take hold of power. It is rarely sudden.

Next Tuesday, vote for a Democrat. Please! I say that not because I am one and believe our ideologies are more sound – although I do. I say that in defense of our democracy. We need a check on power. We need someone preventing him from continuously testing what he can do. I will admit we are not perfect and you may disagree with us on many fronts. I ask you to see a greater threat than an extra regulation or a higher tax. I ask you to feel the fragility of our democracy slipping through our collective grasp.

Acquiescence is dangerous. It is all we see right now. At the risk of hyperbole, November 6th may be our last chance. Do not let the 7th be the tipping point.