Americans who cherish democracy know that our current misadventures on the slippery slope to totalitarianism must end. But how?
It ends with our representatives in Washington arguing policies and perspectives and compromising for the common good, without evasion, childish name-calling and the blame game.
It ends with mature, consistent statesmanship practiced by a chief executive surrounded by a competent and selfless cabinet.
It ends with a Department of Justice no longer serving as an instrument of revenge.
It ends with allies and adversaries alike relearning to trust that America’s word is as good as it’s bond, and that bond is again nurturing growth of democracy worldwide.
It ends with a steady reduction in the amount of coal burned for fuel.
It ends with national legislation requiring that every congressional district boundary is drawn by a nonpartisan commission.
It ends with a return to the name of the Department of Defense, with John Kennedy’s name alone on our capitol’s arts center, and with no arch obstructing views of Arlington National Cemetery.
I know this is how it will end. Why? Because a vibrant, diverse, freedom-loving people have made a precious and unique experiment in democracy work for 250 years. E pluribus unum; out of many, one. In unity of purpose, there is strength.
What I don’t know is when it will end. Have we had enough? There are hopeful signs. Elections have consequences. Are we ready to reclaim our destiny?