Take 1: The State of American Democracy
Yet another open display of political violence in America, a cause for great concern. Once upon a time, our democratic institutions were strong, functional and resilient; oh how far they have fallen. Our republic is a precious gift that must be carefully nurtured by the people, lest it descend into mob rule and tyranny. Political violence is the tool of the tyrant, who cares little for concepts like honor or integrity, instead prioritizing political results at any cost. The amount of Americans, both prominent public figures and everyday Joes, who have condoned an assassination attempt against a presidential candidate is both shocking and telling for the state of our democracy. The fact that Donald Trump has been targeted for liquidation twice now by individuals from the disgruntled, anti-Trump sect of America speaks volumes about the state of ethical reasoning in this nation and the health of our democracy. We are not Vladimir Lenin’s revolutionary Bolsheviks, Mao’s foot soldiers for the cultural revolution or Robespierre’s arbiters of revolutionary justice; we are Americans, and we do not use political violence as a means to effect change.
Take 2: A Flawed System
Former President Trump was evacuated from his golf course on September 15 due to a potential threat to his life. Asking Generation Z what this single event says about American democracy almost feels laughable. As a burnt-out and anxious generation they’ve been saying for as long as they can remember that the system is flawed. While concerning, the attempt hasn’t been a defining moment for them no matter what side of the political spectrum they fall on. It simply is an outcome of a flawed system.
Take 3: When Did Political Violence Become the Status Quo?
Trump once again survives an assassination attempt—and while the headlines might say “unprecedented,” are we really surprised? Shootings at rallies, guns on golf courses—it sounds like the plot of a James Bond movie, not a presidential election. Yet, here we are. It has happened too many times to come as a shock, and instead serves as a reflection of a crumbling political scene.
A new generation is inheriting a tired democracy where attempted assassination a recurring reaction to political discontentment. Guns are joining candidates on their campaigns, and shots are replacing dialogue; an almost embarrassing state. We have to question when violence became the political status quo and rethink what we’ve built before it leaves behind nothing but a legacy of division.
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