Whatever your political flavor, do you understand your role in our democracy?

Question

It drives me crazy when people bash those who are critical of our very deserving (IMHO) leaders, calling them traitors, etc.. Do you know what would happen if we all marched in line behind the Bush administration?

Jacob - I disagree with you wholeheartedly here:
"...American citizens should also accept the results of the election and allow the elected official to do his/her job. I do not think it is right for people to shout down elected officials. They were elected by a majority and are the leader of all."

I have figured out how we can think so differently. If you would, please read this link about impeachment, it is interesting no matter how you feel about politics. Our founding fathers protected us incase of grave emergency to remove our elected leaders for the sake of our country, as you know. I hear those alarms so loud it makes my heart pound. So many people do. I love my country as much as you do. We are all so angry for different reasons but because of the same patriotism, trust me. http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/impeach/constitution.html

Answer 1

Just a few points here. Firstly, this is not a democracy it is a representative republic. Also, in any election not every vote counts. Only the votes properly cast by eligible voters count.

I hear too many people complain that the government does this or that. Look. We are the government. We select the people that will represent us. If they are not living up to your expectations vote for someone else. But be advised, if more people in your district, or state like someone else that person will be selected to represent you. That is how it works. Think you have a valid point that other do not share? Then you need to persuade enough others to join you or learn to accept it.

The electoral college elects the president but you have input as to how yours state's delegates will vote. In most states the winner of the popular vote in that state gets all that states delegates. Three or four states use a proportional system.

My role as an American citizen is to register, participate and on election day, vote. But it doesn't stop there. American citizens should also accept the results of the election and allow the elected official to do his/her job. I do not think it is right for people to shout down elected officials. They were elected by a majority and are the leader of all. They have a right to be heard and their constituents have a right to hear them speak. Voters should express their opinions in the proper forums.

Most importantly, when American troops are in harms way, we should never undermine their ability to win. No matter what. If you feel the conflict should be ended, elect a Commander-in-Chief that thinks the way you do. Other than that you should show support and unity or remain quiet. To do otherwise hurts our troops and give encouragement to the enemy.

These are my duties as a citizen of the United States of America.

Answer 2

The reason our government is in such a mess (well, the MAIN reason) is because too many people take advantage of the system.

It'd be a lot better if we could try unity (that peace stuff Democrats are always preaching) for once, instead of throwing sh!t at each other. Ok, you're welcome to have your own thoughts, but express them in a sincere manner, unlike people like Cindy Sheehan (can't STAND her!).

But of course, such is human nature.

Answer 3

Yeah, the same as if we didn't. Neither you or I have the power to stop the Government. That is the way they want it. Go vote, your vote makes a difference. Sure it does, please believe me would I ever lead you wrong. Every vote counts, as long as it matches what they want. Law making is the area we are out of control in. It is just hidden by the limp wristed war haters, tree huggers, rainbow warriors, lavender folder qu*ers. Good luck.

Answer 4

yup. I do. This is why we VOTE.