I think saying the argument “Vote Democrat or lose democracy” means democracy is already lost is a gross oversimplification. Really, it’s vote Democrat until the other guys decide they will commit to democracy. One is temporary; the other is permanent.
Some losses are already permanent. Example: We've probably lost forever the proud practice of fair and free elections. We used to teach other nations how to do it. Now the news is freely distributed of camo-wearing, gun-toting idiots intimidating voters at polling places.
It was shockingly easy for the Rs to destroy confidence in our elections. Like taking candy from a baby. For the 1000th time, I’m gobsmacked at the gullibility of too many Americans.
I think saying the argument “Vote Democrat or lose democracy” means democracy is already lost is a gross oversimplification. Really, it’s vote Democrat until the other guys decide they will commit to democracy. One is temporary; the other is permanent.
Here is an excellent response to that Barro argument. https://johnganz.substack.com/p/small-d-delusional
Some losses are already permanent. Example: We've probably lost forever the proud practice of fair and free elections. We used to teach other nations how to do it. Now the news is freely distributed of camo-wearing, gun-toting idiots intimidating voters at polling places.
And we're the country needing election watchers.
It was shockingly easy for the Rs to destroy confidence in our elections. Like taking candy from a baby. For the 1000th time, I’m gobsmacked at the gullibility of too many Americans.
And some judges inclined to condone such voter intimidation as an exercise in free speech.
That “argument” felt nonsensical to me. I read it several times, but the supposed logic behind it eludes me.
Voter s aren't that nuanced if history is any guide.
It would be hard for me to have less faith in Americans than i do now.
...watching Presidential Historian Michael Beschloss go all 'hair on fire' last evening was very unnerving!
That was my reaction too. Jon Meacham has similar concerns. Both point out that there is no guarantee that we stay democratic.
Yes! When educated, people of modest temperament sound an unequivocal warning, I get really scared.