The three branches of government are currently under the control of one party. The amount of political power that it implies is being played out in a general policy of extremes that go unchecked because there is no effective adversary to challenge it.
The democratic process allows for one party rule if that is the wish of a majority of the voting public. Because of that, we must live with the danger what may be called, the tyranny of the majority.
The founding fathers understood that vulnerability in the democratic system and sought to institute constitutional checks and balances among the three governing sectors that are the legislative, the executive and the courts. The founders also sought to protect individual rights with a set of Amendments in the Constitution that guarantees them.
However, because of the gradual replacement of one generation by another and the demographic shift in the ethnic and racial make up of the nation, a sense of fear has developed in our ruling class to the point that political radicalization has set in that attempts to invent a reality that is not there.
The effort to create an alternate social and political world is transparently clear for all to see in this country and abroad. The country’s image as a beacon of liberty is falling. This can be seen not only in our national civil discourse but also on the world stage.
I see countries and governments that used to be close friends and allies trying to find ways to do without collaboration with the United States. I see political leaders around the world shifting their gaze away from our country and what it stands for.
Meanwhile back home, the political excesses continue. The latest is that President Trump came to the State of Texas and asked for a special session to redistrict congressional representation before the midterm election.
Gerrymandering by the Republican controlled legislature in Texas promises the probability of securing five new seats for the Party. The Florida Republican leadership is thinking seriously about doing the same thing and the Democrats are also on a similar path.
It appears that the President’s popularity is underwater, and the Republican Party stands to lose control of the House. So, creating safe and winnable congressional districts by both parties and by whatever means, is an important priority for the 2026 midterm elections.
Normally the midterm elections go in favor of the party that is not in power. However, these are not normal times. They are confusing times as the direction of the country lacks a strategy that explains a national interest that conforms with decisions at the highest level. It seems that doing this or doing that depends on a personal whim rather than part of a plan to benefit America.
It is true that the loyal opposition, the Democrats, are not doing well in achieving the support of the people. Yet they represent an important check on the current unfettered power of the President supported by the leadership of the House and Senate.
The ruling party seems to have the money and the voice to effectively make its case to the American people that seem so divided in every way. Yet bringing successful opposition to the excesses of those in power is a must.
In a time when things seem to be falling apart and our national institutions are getting weaker; there is need for political dialogue that can help turn things around. This goes to the wisdom of the notion around divided government.
The views expressed by David Conde are not necessarily the views of LaVozColorado. Comments and responses may be directed to News@lavozcolorado.com.
