The Republican Party used to hold fast to the mantra that the government closest to the people governs best. It also used to support latitude among local governments to improvise as “laboratories of democracy” on everything from school curriculum to zoning and policing, under the assumption that lower levels of government are more responsive to voters.

No longer. Today, Republicans are on a binge of micromanaging local actors and punishing those who do not knuckle under. Now it’s up to the Biden administration to protect local leaders from their overreach.

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Local officials resisting their governors’ edicts in Texas and Florida underscore the wisdom of the “go local” philosophy that used to animate the GOP. Voters in these communities are siding with their local leaders, asking for mask and vaccine mandates. If only bullying Republican governors still believed in their own principles.

The Biden administration and Democrats more generally should ride to the rescue of local actors battling intrusion by reckless, hyperpartisan governors. The feds can intervene in cases to defend local officials and protect them from fines and punishment. The administration can stand shoulder to shoulder with local school officials trying to save lives and those trying to protect democracy. Democrats might even remind their political opponents that the government closest to the people often knows best.

Berkeley Breathed has been continuing Bloom County on Facebook, allowing a much slower pace than syndication, and has recently finished up a storyline featuring other old friends.

Added for your C&H pleasure, TOON Bonus 2 - Hobbes And Bacon