Voting for Kamala Harris: Essential for American Democracy

The fact that we live in the United States of America, a nation founded on the radical principle that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, underscores the importance of robust democratic processes and the principles that underpin them. When faced with a choice, especially regarding the potential presidential candidacy of Kamala Harris, it is crucial to understand and uphold these foundational values. This essay argues in favor of voting for Kamala Harris based on her unwavering commitment to democracy and America's essential democratic principles.

Democracy and the Essence of America

America's essence lies in its commitment to a set of values and political ideals. These ideals are encapsulated in the principles of democratic governance, where legitimacy is derived from the governed, the rule of law, and the balance of power. According to the United States Constitution and the founding documents, any legitimate government must represent the people, adhere to the rule of law, and operate under a system of checks and balances.

Free and Fair Elections: The Heart of American Democracy

One of the bedrocks of American democracy is the belief in free and fair elections. This is where the power is placed in the hands of the people. However, under the Trump administration, we witnessed a systematic erosion of these principles. Donald Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election, along with his repeated claims of a "stolen" victory, contradicted the essential democratic principle that legal investigations and the rule of law supersede personal political opinion.

Checks and Balances: De-Centering Power

Checks and balances are fundamental to a functional democratic system, ensuring that power is not concentrated in a single entity. The Trump administration, however, lacked this crucial democratic institution. Trump's issuance of executive orders without legislative input and his interference with the Department of Justice and judiciary demonstrated a disregard for judicial independence and the rule of law. His actions prioritized personal loyalty over democratic norms.

Media Freedom and Civil Discourse: Strengths of Democracy

Civil political discourse and media freedom are other vital aspects of democracy. A free press is essential for informed citizenry and effective accountability. Trump's consistent attacks on the press, labeling them as "enemies of the people" and denouncing journalism as "fake news," directly contradicted the First Amendment protections of free speech and press freedoms. His efforts to suffocate opposing voices threatened the very fabric of democratic governance.

The Peaceful Transfer of Power: A Democratic Miracle

The peaceful transfer of power is a cornerstone of democratic governance, particularly when viewed in light of historical contexts of regime change, often marred by violence and bloodshed. However, Trump's response to losing the 2020 election was anything but peaceful. He fueled tensions, refused to condemn extremist groups, and delayed his condemnation of the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. This behavior indicated a willingness to use violence and intimidation to achieve political aims, which is fundamentally opposed to the democratic ideal.

Kamala Harris: A Champion of Democratic Principles

While Kamala Harris may not be my first choice, her commitment to democratic principles is unmatched. She has consistently shown respect for the democratic system and a deep love for the foundational values that have defined America. Kamala Harris's actions in her position as Vice President highlight her dedication to upholding the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and civil discourse. In contrast, Donald Trump demonstrated a stark disregard for these principles, positioning himself as a sworn enemy of American democracy.

Conclusion

The choice to vote for Kamala Harris is not just a vote for a candidate; it is a vote for a return to the core values of democracy that have been eroded under the Trump administration. By supporting Kamala Harris, we uphold the essence of what makes America great—a nation committed to free elections, checks and balances, media freedom, and the peaceful transfer of power.