Frank's Musings

Overthrowing a dictator has been shown to have occurred non-violently several times in history (cf. "Strategic Nonviolent Conflict,"1994, by Peter Ackerman and Christopher Kruegler).  It should be simple, therefore, to use the same tactics to prevent another one from emerging.

Obviating tyranny was the leading objective of the founders of the U.S. Constitution. Ironically, the provisions of that document also provide a pathway for an authoritarian to capture control of the government.  He or she can legally establish an administration that parades as a democracy while appealing to most voters’ regret of having historically submitted to the better judgment of a select class of elites.  In their minds, that seems to be no better than a dictatorship.

If a written democratic constitution can be manipulated to facilitate a dictatorship it should also enable a determined group of restorationists to return power to the people. For that to happen, however, requires (a) a leader unreservedly dedicated to inspiring voters’ self-confidence and (b) funding to purchase sufficient media access to advocate and instruct voters to assert their political power rather than passively do what they’re told.

Until that leader is found, Congress can, at least, limit the demolition of America's democracy if opponents of an authoritarian presidency overwhelmingly win the 2026 mid-term election.  Perhaps that campaign will result in identifying likely 2028 presidential candidates from one or both political parties who would restore our liberal democracy.