We the People and Our Choices

We the People and Our Choices

Robert James Fischer

As the November presidential election gets closer, it becomes critical that We the People consider what kind of president we want.  This country is a representative democratic republic.  The people are the government only when we all participate in electing the right people to represent our views.  Along with this fundamental foundation is the belief that the majority rules.  When our position is not part of the majority, it is our obligation to accept the rule of the majority.  When a part of the minority position, the next election provides an opportunity to change votes and perhaps win the argument.

With the preceding in mind, it is very important that we each consider our choices in casting a ballot.  While the presidential election is critical, state and local elections are important too.  Take time to know who your candidates are.  Where do they stand on various issues?  What does their history tell you about their integrity?  Are they involved in politics for their own self-aggrandizement, or do they care about their constituents?  Who is supporting them?  If it is an organization, what is their agenda?

Consider the support that the Christian nationalist movement has given to many Republican candidates. What does this group represent?  In my opinion, I am very bothered by their agenda.  (See the film – Bad Faith) In discussions with friends and family, I have often corrected those who believe that our founding fathers were all Christians.  Actually, the most prominent were deists.  The Constitution was written to provide for separation of religion and government.  The English, French, and other European experiences with state religions did NOT turn out well.  Our founding fathers clearly wanted a republic where freedom of religion was the rule.

Christian nationalists support the concept of a Christian nation.  They lament the demise of “Christian values.”  Also within their agenda is a return to the days of a male dominated, racist ideology.  Many believe in the old saying that a “hard working” Christian American can achieve the American dream.  This appears to be the position held by Republican Vice-Presidential Candidate J. D. Vance.  A good overview of the Christian nationalist movement can be viewed in the film Bad Faith.

As I write this piece, it appears that the presidential choice will be either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris.  In my previous writings I have attempted to stay neutral. However, I cannot stay neutral in this presidential election.  While I understand the desire for a return to what some see as a better time, America has been and is GREAT!  We the people have evolved.  For example, more rights have been afforded to all people in more recent years.  While poverty is far from irradicated, the general standard of living for most Americans is good as compared to most of the world.  I do not wish to return to a jaded view of the past, where women could not vote, or get a credit card without a male cosigner, or where minorities were not afforded their civil rights.

I look forward to an America that welcomes migrants and offers the same opportunities to all people.  Except for the American Indian, all Americans are the product of immigration.  However, Donald Trump is preying on the fear of losing the “American dream. “  He talks about hate and fear.  He has clearly talked about revenge on those who have the courage to challenge his views.  There is a reason that most of his former cabinet members, including his vice president, do not support his candidacy. 

On the other hand, Kamala Harris is a forward-thinking person.  She understands that migrants have been the backbone of this country.  She believes in the values that have moved this country out of Jim Crow and the subjugation of women.  She has strong moral values without promoting the Christian nationalist agenda.

There is NO choice!  Kamala Harris should be our next president.  Donald Trump should be in prison!