Functional Ambivalent has some fine thoughts about what should happen Wednesday.
I hope and pray that we can go back to work with the celebratory feeling we should all have after watching another democratic miracle. We have, in the most vociferous and occaisionally acrimonious way, held our political leadership accountable, tested their mettle, and made our statement. And now it’s time to feel pride and wave the flag and take a break from calling each other names. On Wednesday it’s time, once again, to become simply “Americans.”
That’s the measure of patriotism, to me: Can you lose the election and then go along with what your countrymen chose, even though you disagreed with it?
No.
Absolutely. As long as the election is fair and legal.
What is the alternative? Just because I don’t agree with the choices that the country makes, suddenly, I no longer support my country. That would be ridiculous in my opinion. That feels, to me, like a 3 year old who cries, “I hate you!” when she doesn’t get her way. Sure, be upset at first, but then work within the system to support your views and beliefs.
Instead of just sitting back and complaining about what’s being done or worse, not saying anything until four years from now, I should fulfill my responsibilities as a U.S. citizen. It’s my job and responsibility as a citizen to continually question our leaders. But it is also important that I support the processes set up by the Constitution. In two years, Americans can change the make-up of Congress if they are unhappy with their lives. Many important decisions are made at the local and state levels. So, if you’re unsatisfied, get involved locally and make a difference.
What Emily said is true, however, with an emphasis on fair and legal, which this election is not. There is already tons of evidence proving this point. That is why I said No on my first post.
The most Patriotic American is one who disagrees with the status quo, not simply accepts it. Just because Texas goes to Bush or more Arizonans choose Bush, I should go along with this. I think not.
Likewise, if the Democrats win, I cannot continue to support more of the same-old-same-old. It is time for real change. Time to involve alternative political parties. Time for the disenfranchisement of minority voters to cease. Time for proportional representation and Instant Runoff Voting. Time for the Electoral College to go bye-bye. Time for the end of Corporate Rule and Corporate Welfare.
Time for love and discussion and the elimination of the team sports mentality that has taken over? Absolutely.
Time to be an American? You got that right!
What he said. The sad fact is that loyalty to the party has out-weighed loyalty to the country for far too long.
Dissent is the most American of activities.
Calling another anti-American must be the least American of activities.
Party politics has strangled our democracy.