By Edward Sperry, Col USAF (ret), Stevensville
Please forgive my abuse of Past President Clinton’s famous quote, but it seems time to remind folks that we live in a republic, not a democracy. The words are not synonymous although we seldom reflect upon this fact. Many national political leaders continuously refer to our democracy; seldom if ever do they refer to our republic. Remember Franklin told us the founders gave us “A republic, madam, if you can keep it.”
May I suggest that this choice of words is not due to carelessness or ignorance but is very deliberate. Our Presidents are elected by an Electoral College; not the popular vote. This assures that states having scant populations are not overwhelmed by the votes of more populated states. After-all, the states which created the Union were all giving up the same degrees of sovereignty. I am sure most of us are aware that without the Electoral College, votes of the left coast states (especially California) and New York will determine the Presidency. The votes of you and I, the residents of fly over country, would be rendered meaningless.
Remember that every democracy in history has failed. Poor old Socrates had 216 judges! I can’t even imagine the chaos resulting from implementing foreign or economic policies through the eyes of a President beholden to the voters of California and New York.
Far-fetched? The idea of abolishing or changing the Electoral College is in fact constantly being advocated by leading left leaning politicians. Yes, it would assure the wonderful goal of ‘one man, one vote’. It sounds so reasonable, so democratic. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make sense for the Presidency. As this critical election year progresses the College will be viciously attacked by the Left. Actually, daily attacks are already underway. You can be sure that if such change is made we will have the tyranny of the majority. Rights such as bearing arms and freedom of speech will be a risk. If we ever lose the Electoral College, our votes will not be worth a damn!