The “Big Lie” and the end of democracy

George Packer writes in his article, Imagine The Worse, in the Jan/Feb. 2022 issue of The Atlantic, “If the end comes it will come through democracy itself.” p.18

Packer writes further, “We know what’s driving us toward this cataclysm: not simply Trump, but the Republican party.” p.18

Packer writes, “Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers around the country have spent the year stacking state election offices with partisans who can be counted on to do Trump’s bidding next time. State legislatures have tried, in many cases successfully, to pass laws that will make it easier to manipulate or overturn election results and intimidate nonpartisan officials by criminalizing minor infractions. In state after state, Republicans have tried to make it harder for Americans, especially Democratic constituencies, to vote. This tireless campaign of legislation and disinformation has set in motion an irreversible process of electoral sabotage.” p.18

The basic idea is that voters will no longer choose the electors that will cast their ballots in congress for President but the state legislatures will. Packer writes, “The danger is that the express will of the American people could be overthrown.” p.20

There is no easy way to stop a major party that’s intent on destroying democracy. The demonic energy with which Trump repeats his lies, and Bannon harangues his audience, and Republican politicians around the country try to seize every lever of election machinery—this relentless drive for power by American authoritarians is the major threat that America confronts. The Constitution doesn’t have an answer. No help will come from Republican leaders; if Romney and Susan Collins are all that stand between the republic and its foes, we’re doomed. P20

The choice Americans face is between authoritarianism which the Republicans favor and democracy. Local elections and State elections matter. Are candidates supporters of the “Big Lie” or not? The answer matters for the future of our democracy. Find out the answer before you vote if you are allowed.

Sore losers threaten democracy

This creates a potentially dangerous situation for the United States. Acceptance of electoral defeat, something political scientists call “loser’s consent,” is essential for stability and order in democracies.

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‘Sore losers’ can drive terrorism

Democracy is based on a compact: Election losers agree to accept the results and encourage their supporters to do the same.

In exchange, losing politicians get a chance to run, and win, in a future election.

However, loser’s consent is fragile. And when it is broken the risk of political violence increases. In a recent study I published, I conclude that when election losers in democracies reject election results, becoming “sore losers,” trust in political institutions is eroded, political polarization and tribalism grows and mistrust thrives.

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How "Citizens United" and big corporate campaign contributions is ruining our democracy.

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What do you think about the idea that money  is speech? If this is true, does that mean than only wealthy are heard because they speak the loudest and have the most influence?

Impeachment isn't as much about Donald Trump as it is about core democratic principles.

What is at stake in the impeachment of the United States is the core beliefs in our constituion of the United States. All Americans have a duty to educate themselves and inform others about our values and support for democratic processes.