Pt. 8) An Independent Congress
It is a nuanced political belief that in American politics, all citizens are represented in our government. Yet, for those outside the confines of party affiliation, this ideal remains elusive. A report commissioned by Unite America sheds light on the staggering reality that 27 million registered voters are effectively locked out of the democratic process due to closed party primaries—a stark reminder of the reverberating injustice akin to "taxation without representation."
Trapped within the narrative of a two-party system, Americans have been conditioned to accept the false notion that this dual rule is the only viable form of democracy. This conditioning instills a sense of fear and distrust towards the idea of voting for third parties. However, united in our belief that fostering a three-party movement is imperative, we must challenge and transform the prevailing narrative that stifles our collective imagination of what's achievable.
In the ever-evolving progress of society, the unknown often looms as an intimidating force, especially when we struggle to envision a future beyond the familiar confines of the two-party paradigm. Yet, within this uncertainty lies the potential for transformative change—a chance to break free from the shackles of the status quo and usher in a future brimming with new possibilities. With over 60% of voters expressing fatigue from political strife, it's high time to reverse the destructive legacy of Newt Gingrich's partisan warfare.
The gridlock paralyzing Congress serves as a poignant testament to the dysfunctional aspects of our political system, thwarting progress on critical issues that resonate deeply with the American people. Lawmakers' inability to transcend partisan divides perpetuates a power struggle between the Red and Blue, sidelining urgent matters like healthcare reform, climate action, domestic and global security, and economic revitalization. As Baron de Montesquieu astutely observed, “anyone who possesses power has a tendency to abuse it is an eternal truth. They tend to go as far as the barriers will allow.”
What the two party system has shown us over the past 30 years is that obstructionism and partisanship is the highest priority when it comes to government. If its good for one party its bad for the other and thus doing anything to enact change or progress while not in the majority is off limits. In 2010, Mitch McConnell is quoted with saying ""The decision I made was that, given the choice between gridlock and progress, I'd rather gridlock.” Highlighting his commitment to obstructionism over governing and preferring nothing to be done. He continued in 2013 by saying, "You know, we pretty well shut them down in the Senate and the House last year. There's no reason we can't do it again.” What started with Gingrich, continues under McConnell with no plan for cooperation in the current congress.
We yearn for independence from this tyrannical warfare waged by the two-party establishment, a battle that strips the dignity of our nation and robs our children of their future. Our quest for independence extends to breaking free from party influence over our legislative processes, a shift towards an economic system that prioritizes equitable distribution of wealth for the benefit of society, and an American First policy that truly focused on the future prosperity of this country. Independence, for independent voters means putting an end to the current system and the notion of taxation without representation.
This journey towards independence begins now and will face its first test in the 2026 midterms, where we will elect more independent candidates to Congress than ever before. These candidates will champion the ideals of Congress as the House of the People, advocating for government reforms such as Ranked Choice Voting, Congressional term limits, and a ban on individual stock trading for members of Congress. Let us embark on this journey towards independence, restoring civility and debate that embodies the true spirit of American democracy.
