Two Different Universes
You’re probably overwhelmed with political discussion. I’ll try to offer some original analysis for you to consider.
I’ve pointed out before that Trump’s opponents live in two very different universes. One presumes Trump can be defeated, or at least constrained electorally, by a decisive win in the upcoming midterms. Accordingly, most of the personal, financial, and organizational resources being mustered are allocated there, and so is the attention to building a supportive strategy.
The Challenge of a Second Universe
Universe two sees an overwhelming body of evidence that Trump seeks total control of public affairs, irrespective of the Constitution and the laws. It stands to reason he won’t surrender any power he’s already acquired, including control of the military and vast emergency powers. That raises the question: if he interferes with the midterms, what counter-strategy is being developed? There’s little evidence of one. Minimalism prevails.
What Happens If the Midterms Are Disrupted?
If Trump, aided by ICE, physically interferes with ballot casting, counting, or certification, electoral or courtroom remedies won’t make the slightest difference. Hard realists say it will be time to “sharpen pitchforks and take to the streets” — time for a general strike, a tactic we’ve rarely attempted and with scant evidence of success. Either way, where is the preparation?
The Risk of Preparing for Civil Disobedience
Perhaps the problem is this: preparing for civil disobedience gives authoritarians grounds to treat that preparation as meeting the legal definition of conspiracy — a punishable felony, even if the plan is never carried out.
Thinking Through the Possibilities
What Happens If the Midterms Are Disrupted?
I’m not asking you to passively accept any of this, but I earnestly ask you to think it through.
Submitted by Barry Keene