November 16, 2023
I have spent the past few weeks paying particular attention to allegations that democracy is threatened. No surprise…it’s true, and it is not recent. The appearance of newness is due in large part to the election of Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House [1] and the GOP backlash to their losses in the recent election. [2]. But the erosion of democracy has been in play for a long time. [3]
The threat is real and pervasive, expressed in already-enacted laws at the state and federal levels, and laws being proposed. Even more fundamental is a growing movement to rewrite the Constitution in ways that would enshrine far-right political/religious extremism. The evidence of the erosion of democracy is legion. Here are signs in no particular order….
Common good, replaced by oligarchy
“Liberty and justice for all” replaced by liberty and justice for some
Servant politicians replaced by authoritarians, extremists, and demagogues
Increase in the number and activity of anti-government hate groups
Liberal-arts education replaced by sectarian ideology and curriculum restriction
Undermining the public school system at all levels
Voter access replaced by voter restrictions and gerrymandering
Reduction/elimination of support programs for those who need it most
Corporate pricing for goods and services that make the out of reach for many
Truth replaced by lies and misinformation through public appearances and media
Anti-DEI initiatives and legislation
Political caucuses that stonewall, bully, and undermine the democratic process
Dark-money support of democratic subversion by PACs and robber barons
Targeted ”othering” of certain people that enflames division and conflict
Growing economic disparity that widens the gap between haves and have-nots
Inclusive theology replaced by Dominionism and Christian Nationalism
The last sign is the one I know most about. It runs through the list, poisoning the well with the lie that all this is God blessed. And not surprisingly, imperialism (political/religious collusion) is among the major factors in history for undermining the abundant life Jesus said he came to give. Rather than joining the MAGA movement (in all its expressions) Christians must denounce it and name Christian Nationalism for the anti-Christ, anti-Gospel movement that it is. [4]
In the face of those who would destroy democracy, we must nonviolently resist them through education and engagement. With respect to education, read Walter Brueggemann’s ‘Tenacious Solidarity’ and William Barber II’s ‘We Are Called to be a Movement.’ In addition, learn who the extremist politicians are, and work to defeat them when they stand for re-election in 2024. [5]
With respect to engagement, we must support those active in the resistance. I mention here several national groups, but they are among many others: Americans United, Christians Against Christian Nationalism, and the Poor People’s Campaign. In addition, there are local resistance groups to support.
[1] Laura Jedeed, “Inside Mike Johnson’s Ties to a Far-Right Movement to Gut the Constitution,” Politico, November 10, 2023.
[2] Tori Otten, “Rick Santorum Says Quiet Part Out Loud After Republican Election Losses,” The New Republic, November 8, 2023. What he said was that pure democracies are a bad form of government.
[3] Vanessa Williamson, “Four Things to Know About Democratic Erosion” Brooking, October 18, 2023.
[4] David Gushee’s new book, ‘Defending Democracy From Its Christian Enemies’ exposes faux Christianity in an excellent way.
[5] Here is an article that describes the Freedom Caucus and provides a list of members and allies: Drew Desilver, “Freedom Caucus Likely to Play a Bigger Role in the new GOP-led House. Who Are They?” Pew Research Center, January 23, 2023. If your Representative is on the list, work to vote them out.