This week we discussed the most vital aspect of government, its method of replenishing itself. When we traveled to the Department of State and spoke with David Bame, I began to think about the inner workings of the United States government. This very important man was discussing politics with a troupe of college freshman. Thats a big deal! The United States government is, for the most part, open with its citizens. We have a government such that we, the citizens, vote officials and leaders into office. There are lobbyist and interest groups that appeal to congress. There are non-profit organizations that work for worthy causes. In contrast, many countries would never allow citizens, especially students, into a federal building because no aspect of such governmental regimes appeal to the popular sovereignty of the people.
There are certainly downfalls to our government. Many point to education, balancing state and federal powers, the electoral college and many laws and policies as culprits of negatively affecting our government, and it may be true. However, our government has lasted. When other governments have struggled to survive, the United States has stood strong. Why? I believe it is because there is hope in democracy. If someone dislikes something they can advocate for change. For example, if I dislike our current president and oppose his policies, I can plan to vote against him in the next election and I can actively engage in politics elsewhere to lobby agains his actions. Our government is also built on a system of checks and balances. So, if I vote and my candidate does not win, I know that the winning candidate will still have to clear his actions with other actors in the political world.
Somehow it just works, and it wouldn’t work without voting, or democracy, or people like David Bame who defend the rights of U.S. citizens and correspond both internationally and with a bunch of freshman.
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