This three-day weekend we celebrated the founding of our republic 246 years ago. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress proclaimed independence and two days later adopted our beloved Declaration of Independence.
Since then, our nation has endured a lot and today faces great challenges. Your columnists, who haven’t been at all since the foundation (but close), report on the health of good old US in the tumultuous political year of 2022.
A recent CBS News poll revealed that 72% of Americans believe that “our democracy is under threat.” This is a surprising result because most of all demographic groups share this concern. Are the country and our constitutional principles in jeopardy? Should we celebrate or mourn this Independence Day?
Pignanelli: “Democracy … is a charming form of government, full of variety and disorder; and dispensing a kind of equality to equals and unequals alike. “- Plato
I hereby exercise my constitutional right to be paternalistic and self-righteous. Citizens who care that our republic is in danger should spend less time absorbing the nonsense of the abominations of cable television on the left or right. Instead, they should spend time reading a book, or at least a Wikipedia entry, about the history of that country. This activity will provide the necessary perspective.
We live in a time of extreme partisanship and social division. There is a lot of resentment in street protests and on social media. But this is a condition that affects all generations. Americans have a legacy of disagreement and discord, while maintaining a functioning government and a lasting economy. Shouting and shouting are vital signs of a healthy democracy. Tranquility is the domain of authoritarian regimes.
The January 6 committee hearings, as well as the Watergate investigations, detail horrific internal attacks that were thwarted from within. The heroes of both controversies belonged to the same party of presidents under control.
Our republic and fundamental constitutional principles have never been stronger. Innovation and entrepreneurship continue to grow. Witnessing a hateful protest or hearing a ridiculous conspiracy provides comfort to those who understand the legacy and mission of the United States. Read a good history book if you have any questions.
Webb: There is a lot of conspiracy and conspiracy in both the far right and the far left. But the left is almost apolitical in the face of the emergence of a very conservative U.S. Supreme Court and the very likely prospect of being voted out of power in November.
Our country will survive and prosper thanks to the sensible central current that will throw the political pendulum towards the center if it moves too far to the left or right.
The greatest danger facing our country is the political excess of the victorious supporters. Democrats, who barely won the presidency and Congress in 2020, greedily interpreted their narrow victory as a fulminating mandate to fulfill all archetypal dreams. They were unsuccessful on all issues, thanks to the Senate obstruction rule, but their agenda alienated major Americans and they will pay for it in November.
Then it will be the turn of the Republicans to govern, even though they will be constrained for two years by a Democratic president. This may be His saving grace. Otherwise, they may reflect the Democrats ’playbook with an arch-conservative agenda that irritates Central America.
As a senior conservative, he welcomes a Supreme Court with a more original approach to constitutional issues. I’m happy with the prospect of Republicans controlling Congress. I am pleased that the pendulum is rotating backwards. It gives me hope for a flourishing America.
However, if Republicans exaggerate, and there will be a strong temptation to do so, especially on issues like abortion and immigration, the victory will be short-lived.
Why should the people of Utah, especially, observe this July 4th anniversary with joy and pride?
Pignanelli: The state’s dominant political party recently participated in primary conventions and contests for offices large and small. The accusations that a small group of individuals control politics are a fantasy. The local media are not shy when it comes to investigating, and sometimes unjustly attacking, the powers that be. The minority party performs the same function and is successful in certain regions of the state.
Our state and local governments constantly receive awards for transparent deliberations and fair elections. Democracy, along with fried sauce and Diet Coke, is flourishing in Utah.
Webb: The founders established a nation of states in which moral people with good government can thrive. Utah’s main conservative approach to government, with excellent state and local leadership and good citizens, has served the state remarkably well. Definitely worth celebrating.
Is there any particular emotion that readers should embrace this weekend?
Pignanelli: Any healthy Utah living in the 21st century should appreciate a government, a society, an economy, and a support network that are downright solid. Policy disagreements are needed, and it is imperative to appreciate the ability to do so.
Webb: We should have a humble, quiet pride in America. For all its flaws, it is still a shining beacon, the hope of the world. We should be proud that our American compatriots, for the most part, are honest and sensible citizens who will not tolerate extremism, for a long time, on either side.
Republican LaVarr Webb is a former journalist and a small semi-retired farmer and political consultant. Email: lwebb@exoro.com.
Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake lawyer, lobbyist and political advisor who served as a Democrat in the Utah State Legislature. Email: frankp@xmission.com.
