Harris vs Trump: Democracy at Stake This Election

As the United States approaches election day, the contrasting views of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump on democracy are paramount. Kamala Harris frames the election as an essential battle for the preservation of American democracy and fundamental freedoms. She intends to accept the results of the 2024 election and has condemned Trump’s efforts to contest the 2020 results. On January 6th, Harris will preside over the certification of the election results, ensuring no interference in the counting process. In stark contrast, Trump harbors doubts about accepting the election outcome if he loses. He has not ruled out political violence and has controversially suggested the 'termination of the Constitution.' Furthermore, Harris supports two pivotal legislative pieces aimed at expanding voting rights: the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act aimed at restoring parts of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Freedom to Vote Act, which seeks to increase electoral participation. Trump opposes these bills, claiming they are fraudulent rather than rights-based. He has consistently attacked mail-in voting and spread unfounded conspiracy theories about electoral processes, which have led Republican lawmakers to impose stricter voting laws. Trump advocates for a national voter ID law, likely to be more stringent than the counterparts proposed by Democrats. Moreover, he has hinted at undermining the independence of the Justice Department, suggesting he would use government power against his adversaries. Harris has firmly opposed such actions, emphasizing the need for preserving the Justice Department's independence. As the norms of democracy are challenged this election cycle, the stakes could not be higher for voters.