Peaceful Transitions
After the dust settles in November and the electoral college casts their electoral votes for president, the question on everyone’s mind is whether or not there will be peaceful transitions of power.
Our democratic process, a cornerstone of any functioning society, relies on a smooth transition of power from one administration to the next. In the wake of a closely contested election, the stability of a nation hinges on the ability of political leaders and their supporters to accept the outcome gracefully. Does anyone honestly believe that if President Trump loses this election again, he will gracefully cede the election to President Biden? Consider the events of January 6, 2021, to answer that question.
George Washington acknowledged that our democracy could only work if leaders accept a peaceful transition when he said:
What is most important of this grand experiment, the United States? Not the election of the first president but the election of its second president. The peaceful transition of power is what will separate this country from every other country in the world.
Ronald Regan has also acknowledged the need for a peaceful transition:
To a few of us here today this is a solemn and most momentous occasion, and yet in the history of our nation it is a commonplace occurrence. The orderly transfer of authority as called for in the Constitution routinely takes place, as it has for almost two centuries, and few of us stop to think how unique we really are. In the eyes of many in the world, this every-four-year ceremony we accept as normal is nothing less than a miracle.
The foundation of a peaceful transition lies in the acceptance of electoral outcomes by all parties involved. It requires political leaders to prioritize the greater good over personal or party interests and commit to the democratic principles that underpin our electoral process, recognizing that the legitimacy of the government ultimately stems from the will of the people. Will MAGA candidates recognize these principles this time? Based on the 2020 events, I fear that may not happen.
History has shown that democracies have the capacity to weather storms and emerge stronger. The true test lies in the ability of a nation to navigate political transitions with grace, ensuring that the democratic ideals that form the bedrock of our society remain.
That is one very good reason why your vote matters on November 5, 2024. Vote for the candidates who are on record to keep our democracy strong. Vote for the candidates who truly believe in a democratic process and society. And for democracy’s sake, vote.
Post submitted by Maggie Smith, a volunteer with The Union.
Note: The views and opinions expressed by volunteer contributors are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions of The Union, a single-issue organization that welcomes all and is dedicated to protecting democracy.
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