So one year from now.....

[LDAHL]

There are elections, and elections. Authoritarian countries have (closely run with much oversite by those in power) elections. I don't see holding elections as being the same thing as protecting democracy as we have come to know it. So while I agree there will continue to be elections, I don't necessarily agree that holding elections is the be-all/end-all to ensure the continuation of our Constitutionally formed, we-the-people ran, government.

What is the be-all/end-all if not electing our officials?

[bae]

What is the be-all/end-all if not electing our officials?

All the other routine panoply of civic participation and virtue, such as attending public government meetings, making use of public access time, examining financial reports and audits, writing thoughtful letters to your representatives, bringing cookies to local governmental meetings for the fire commissioners (OK, I’m biased on this one…), keeping current on issues so you can have an informed opinion on matters that concern you, showing up for jury duty, and so on.

[LDAHL]

All the other routine panoply of civic participation and virtue, such as attending public government meetings, making use of public access time, examining financial reports and audits, writing thoughtful letters to your representatives, bringing cookies to local governmental meetings for the fire commissioners (OK, I’m biased on this one…), keeping current on issues so you can have an informed opinion on matters that concern you, showing up for jury duty, and so on.

I think you’re right about the importance of civic engagement. It’s an arena where we the people have let the Republic down every bit as much as our political class. Over thirty years in local government, I watched the decline of roll-up-your-sleeves involvement in the face of a sort of consumerism constantly asking what their country could do for them.

[frugal-one]

Based on original question of poster…. talk is that trump wants to do away with the filibuster, therefore, enabling republications who have control of everything now, to stay in power indefinitey! trump needs to stay in power or face consequences for his heinous acts.

[LDAHL]

Based on original question of poster…. talk is that trump wants to do away with the filibuster, therefore, enabling republications who have control of everything now, to stay in power indefinitey! trump needs to stay in power or face consequences for his heinous acts.

How would eliminating the filibuster ensure permanent control for Republicans?