American democracy is on the treadmill of doom: How do we get off?

[American Interregnum]

America is in deep trouble — and I say that not out of hatred but out of love. James Baldwin once explained that he loved America "more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually."

With little fanfare, last Monday was World Freedom Day. President Biden offered an obligatory public statement, including the somewhat dubious claim that since the fall of the Berlin Wall 32 years ago, "we have seen great progress to advance human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as to build and consolidate democratic institutions across the formerly communist countries of Central and Eastern Europe and around the world." But democracy, the president admitted, "remains under threat" in many parts of the world where "we see aspiring autocrats trample the rule of law, attack freedom of the press, and undermine an independent judiciary."

Biden's proclamation continues:

Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the ideal that democracy — a Government of the people, by the people, and for the people — is how we best safeguard the rights, freedoms, and dignity that belong to every person. Together with other free nations, the United States remains committed to the vital work of strengthening our democratic institutions, defending civil society, advancing human rights, and holding those who commit abuses and foster corruption accountable.

It is a statement of what the United States wishes it were, not what it actually is, especially in this era of democracy crisis and ascendant neofascism. In total, there is something apprehensive and sad in this overly hopeful tribute, not to mention a hefty dose of denial. Biden's proclamation almost sounds like the words of a president who knows his country is losing a war, yet tells the public: "Victory is imminent! Do not despair!"

By CHAUNCEY DEVEGA, SALON
PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 15, 2021 6:00AM (EST)
https://www.salon.com/2021/11/15/american-democracy-is-on-the-treadmill-of-doom-how-do-we-get-off/

Denial, I fear, is what too many Democratic officials are engaging in right now, and that has to stop.

[doc03]

1. It is hard to feel optimistic. To me it seems Democrats

are just going about things as if this is all just going to blow away. We have Congress people making threats to kill Democrats and they are still in office. If it was Democrats doing this and Republicans were in control they would behind bars. Too much time has passed since January 6th, except for a few of us it is history. It is like we are helpless to prevent what we all know is coming.

[PortTack]

2. How do we get off? We support our dem leaders, get involved, volunteer donate and vote

And never let up!!

Is this serious yes, I’m serious too..stop complaining and start doing something!

[c-rational]

4. +1 Exactly my sentiments. Focus on what you want, actively work towards it and never give

up or despair. The other side knows full well how to act the part. We have the skills and knowledge, what we sometimes lack is that can-do (aggressive) in your face spirit that is sometimes needed.

[lees1975]

3. This is going to take massive mobilization

First of all, to register everyone to vote, and make sure they get to the polls, down to the precinct level. Money needs to be allocated to going house by house, door to door, and anyone who understands the threat is coming from the GOP needs to be recruited for the Democratic party and then sent to the voting booth. Make sure those mail in ballots get in the mail early.

Then, it's pouring out the message on social media and turning the narrative toward what Democrats are doing and away from the Trumpies, conspiracy theorists and Republicans who just don't get it. Jamie Harrison and the chairs of the Democratic party in each state need to be moving on this now.

That will mean EVERYONE setting aside their own agenda and focusing on the agenda of saving American Democracy. Your agenda won't matter, whether you're progressive, liberal, moderate or even somewhat conservative, if Democrats don't win in 2022.