Trending
Playing with representative democracy is a delicate game, one that can evoke strong emotions and foster resentments.
Democrats have lost two elections in 2000 and 2016 where they won the popular vote and lost the presidency. Both results have had profound consequences from the Supreme Court, which was constructed by the ruthless Mitch McConnell, to the notorious Project 2025.
A great deal was done by states that ignore Baker vs Carr, which mandated "one man, one vote." Texas is a good example of trying to seize five seats by changing the rules mid-census. It is a legal method but not notably ethical. But it is also a reflection of Conservative insecurity. The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice John Roberts, has shown a disregard for popular views not seen since the Dred Scott decision, made famous by Roger B. Taney. In 2000, these northerners put in the disastrous George W. Bush administration.
Their motivation primarily was to protect traditional America from any change. It is eerily like Southerners, who at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, tried to preserve their power. They placed a ruling regarding the House of Representatives, which counted slaves as 3/5 of voters. Although they could not vote, over the years, this granted the South extra seats. This had dire consequences, from tariffs to internal improvements. Northerners resented it understandably, and they became increasingly less fond of slavery's expansion into the territories.
Overreaching, besides being a tactical risk, can become a cause for conflict, especially when Trump continues to declare that he won in 2020. Apparently, those in the GOP are increasingly in agreement. They did not before, but power is alluring. However, if they are not careful, opponents can raise the ante. The Texas redistricting gambit may seem clever, but it is also not a wise move. It is an admission by Trump and Greg Abbott that they are afraid of facing the voters.
Throw in the placement of troops in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., and the pot is simmering to a boil. Republicans whose unusual conduct sees one after another retiring from Congress, but not saying why. Possibly, Trump's pressure is too much for them to bear. They have all become like Susan Collins, the "oh dear oh my" Senator from Maine, who cast dissenting votes only when she knows they will pass without her. Or the disingenuous Lisa Murkowski, who hates some bills but votes for them anyway. At least Trump has the courage of his convictions.
But sooner or later, the GOP "moderates," "conservatives," or whatever motivates them will be held to account. Perhaps they will realize why MAGA rolled them in the first place; they essentially lack a core. l You can hand it to Stephen Bannon and friends; they at least possess a spine.