Pt. 1) Consent of the Governed: The Enduring Relevance of Jefferson’s Vision
When Thomas Jefferson penned the immortal words of the Declaration of Independence, the year 2024 and its unprecedented political challenges were far from his mind. Yet, the enduring genius of his words resonate across time, reminding us that governments derive their powers from the consent of the governed, and the duty to enact change rests firmly in the hands of the people. As we reflect on the unalienable rights of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, it becomes increasingly clear that when any form of government threatens these sacred principles, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it. With over 60% of Americans yearning for an alternative to the current political paradigm, we must ask ourselves: at what point does it become evident that the two-party system no longer enjoys the consent of the governed?
“…that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive to these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it.”
Thomas Jefferson - Declaration of Independence
In today's tumultuous political landscape, partisan gridlock and a shortage of visionary leaders willing to enact meaningful change have left voters disillusioned and clamoring for alternative options. However, the stranglehold of the two-party system remains virtually unchanged since its taken its current form in the 1850s, with the consolidation of power only intensifying over the past century. The entrenched dominance of the two-party establishment has erected barriers to competition, from gerrymandered districts to onerous ballot qualifications for new candidates, and the corrosive influence of corporate money in politics, which has diminished the voice of the average citizen. Meanwhile, media sensationalism capitalizes on this division, perpetuating a cycle of fear and polarization for profit.
Trapped within this narrative of duopolistic rule, Americans have been conditioned to accept the notion that this system is the only viable form of democracy. However, the erosion of political decorum and the rise of partisan warfare, beginning under Newt Gingrich in the early 1990’s, have shattered this notion. With a majority of Americans viewing both parties unfavorably, the question prevails: does the current political system still have the consent of the governed, or does the Declaration of Independence empower us to seek alternatives?
I contend that the consent of the governed has waned to a critical point, necessitating a reevaluation of our political system and its failings. We must honor the legacy of those who fought for independence from tyranny in all its forms and envision a path forward beyond the current fracturing of the American Dream.
Society is presently under the governance of a corporate class more fixated on extracting global resources for immediate gains, indebting future generations with corporate subsidies and forever wars, and exploiting the working class, thereby hindering their ability to pursue fulfilling lives. This blatant disregard to the founding principles of democracy leads us to declare Independence from the dysfunction of the two-party system.
“Instant runoff voting will lead to good government because voters will elect leaders who have the support of a majority.”
Despite the shadows cast by a dysfunctional system, there is hope on the horizon. A burgeoning movement encompassing independent media outlets, election reform advocates, third-party entities, and democratic advocacy groups have emerged to challenge this paradigm. Efforts for reform, such as Ranked Choice Voting, Open Primaries, and Fusion Voting, hold promise in revitalizing our democracy by diversifying voices and expanding choices. Organizations such as No Labels and the Forward Party have emerged in recent years as alternatives to the existing system to help bring about new options.
While these solutions face obstacles in a polarized world, they represent crucial first steps toward dismantling the barriers erected by the two-party system. It is incumbent upon us to seize this moment and strive for a future where the voices of the people truly shape the course of our nation's destiny.
In this series of essays, I intend to outline a path to unifying modern citizens and bring about change to the political system in America as we know it. However, for any change to truly take effect, the people must form a coalition and force change by electing those who will be the voice of change. To serve as a rallying point, the Independent National Coalition (INC) will be a organizing nucleus for this independent movement. The INC endeavors to provide a platform where all independent voters can discover their voice and secure adequate representation.
Will this be the needed bridge that connects all independent voters and gives them a banner to rally behind? Follow along as we continue to push for a better path forward.
