The growing danger to democracy requires urgent attention
As the United States enters a critical phase in its democratic journey, two distinct threats have emerged that demand immediate attention. The first is the lingering presence of Donald Trump, whose radical rhetoric and disregard for democratic norms continue to raise alarm bells. The second threat, which often goes unnoticed, is the ongoing assault on voting rights. While Trump dominates the national conversation, the erosion of access to the ballot has been a subtle, decade-long process. This article aims to shed light on both of these threats and emphasize the urgent need to safeguard democracy.
Trump’s Dangerous Rhetoric and the Shift in Journalism
Donald Trump’s increasingly radical rhetoric has made it impossible to treat him as a normal presidential candidate. His pledges to use the Justice Department for personal vendettas have forced a shift in journalistic coverage, with many recognizing the danger he poses to democracy. Even conservative publications like The Economist have labeled Trump as the biggest threat to the world in 2024. While most Republican politicians remain silent on Trump’s assault on democracy, the issue is gaining traction outside the GOP’s cocoon.
The Subtle Erosion of Voting Rights
While attention is focused on Trump, the long-term deterioration of voting rights has gone unnoticed. This erosion began with the Supreme Court’s 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder, which weakened the Voting Rights Act. Since then, states have implemented discriminatory voter ID laws, purged electoral rolls, gerrymandered districts, and changed early-voting rules to disadvantage certain groups. While these actions may not resemble the wholesale disenfranchisement of the Jim Crow era, they are still attacks on democracy.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit’s Troubling Ruling
The recent 2-1 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit has further undermined voting rights. The majority’s ruling claimed that private parties, including civil rights groups, cannot bring cases under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. This decision disregards Congress’s intentions, Supreme Court precedent, and decades of practice. Law professor Rick Hasen warns that this ruling could eliminate the majority of cases aimed at protecting voting rights, effectively dismantling the Voting Rights Act.
Renewing the Fight for Voting Rights
While preventing Trump from undermining democracy is crucial, it is not enough. Renewing the fight for a new Voting Rights Act and supporting the reforms in the Freedom to Vote Act is essential. Additionally, addressing a major flaw in the Constitution is necessary. The Constitution lacks an explicit, affirmative guarantee of every citizen’s right to vote. Law professor Rick Hasen argues for the enactment of a constitutional amendment that would rectify this gap, ensuring voter access and election integrity.
Conclusion:
The survival of American democracy hinges on addressing the twin threats of Trump and the assault on voting rights. While Trump’s dangerous rhetoric captures headlines, the erosion of access to the ballot goes unnoticed. It is imperative to recognize the urgency of this issue and take action to protect the fundamental principles of democracy. Renewing the fight for a new Voting Rights Act and enacting a constitutional amendment that guarantees every citizen’s right to vote are crucial steps towards safeguarding democracy for future generations. The time to act is now.
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