Democrats are campaigning as if the 2026 election will be fair. That’s a mistake | Austin Sarat | The Guardian
The following are excerpts from this article:
“Last week, during an Oval Office interview with Reuters, Donald Trump touted his accomplishments and suggested that they were so great that “we shouldn’t even have an election” in November. Not surprisingly, that comment made headlines.
But it is at best a distraction from the real threat: the United States will have elections this year, but they will not be free and fair.
Far more important than his musings about calling off the midterms was what the president told the New York Times in another Oval Office interview. As the Times noted, he said that “he regretted not ordering the National Guard to seize voting machines in swing states after his loss in the 2020 election.”
As the Times observed, “Mr. Trump’s expression of regret … was ... a warning sign that he had not given up on the idea that voting machines were dangerous or that they could be seized in an effort to curb fraud.” We should take that warning seriously.
So far, the leaders of the Democratic party have not. They have focused on mobilizing to compete successfully in November, but have done little to ensure the election is not rigged through executive action, intimidation or interference with vote counting.
In a 16 January podcast interview, Robert Kagan, a historian and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, explained why this is a mistake. Because of Donald Trump’s desire and need for complete domination, he cannot tolerate and will not allow a Republican defeat at the polls.
As Kagan put it: “There’s no chance in the world that Donald Trump is going to allow himself to lose in the 2026 elections, because that would be the end of his ability to wield total power. Unless they got up on the rooftop and said: ‘We are going to subvert the 2026 election,’ they could not be more obvious about what their intention is.”
At the end of the day, the president may be attracted to the idea of rigging the 2026 election not just out of a fear that he will not be able to work his will but because, as scholars suggest, electoral manipulation is a signal to critical audiences (including “bureaucracy, potential defectors within the elite, or powerful stakeholders within civil society”) of his “strength“ and “invincibility”.
Whatever Trump’s motivations, Democrats are making a mistake by underestimating the likelihood that, for all the artful campaigning and the many unpopular things they can pin on Republicans, none of that will matter. They, and all the rest of us, must mobilize to avoid that result.
We have no time to waste.”
• Austin Sarat, William Nelson Cromwell professor of jurisprudence and political science at Amherst College, is the author or editor of more than 100 books, including Gruesome Spectacles: Botched Executions and America’s Death Penalty.
From The Peaceful Solution:
The midterm election
Will it be free and fair? It won’t be. Will it occur at all? His Royal Heinous has already said that if we’re at war there’ll be no election. Guess what? If it’s looking bad for him, we’ll be at war to stop the election. The election is important to him because having the majority in the legislature gives the fascist regime the look of legitimacy.
People are putting too much faith in what the midterms will do. They may have a beneficial psychologic effect but in reality the outcome will have little or no practical effect, unless the Dems can get 2/3 majority in the house and senate, which they won’t. They will not be able to undo anything HRH has done or pass new legislation because of his veto power.
They will impeach HRH, but we’ve seen that movie twice before. Convicted in the senate and removed from office? We can only hope, but hope is not a strategy.
What can we do?
We, the people, still have the power of the purse. No one can control our spending, or lack of spending. The other peaceful options are failing. Time is of the essence. We must go on a spending strike until the business community stops supporting His Royal Heinous and the politicians who enable him.
Stop participating. Nearly 70% of the U.S. economy is driven by consumer spending. You and me. Hobble the economy and the stock market.
Economic warfare is the only thing the oligarchs, the business community will understand and act on. Call it a Surreptitious General Strike (Quiet Quitting). Go to work, do as little as possible. Stop spending money except on essentials. Quit feeding the corporate beast that supports HRH.
Comments this long quoting other writers should not clog another writer's comments section. Start your own Substack, or maybe just link to the original sources.
At least 17 of us read your comment and also liked it. Much food for thought there.
And all of our thoughts need to focus on our clear need to have a (possibly) several weeks or longer economic strike! It's time and necessary; it is clear that the administration will try to rig the midterm elections.
Glad that Martin himself liked your comment, but “Don’t read it!” is not the best reply. Comments should be tightly on topic. It is distracting to have to sort through new topics in the comments section.
Thank you so much. Your words help us to understand at a deeper level. Your dedication isn't lost on us. American patriots need to know there are others like you. Like minded, against white supremacy, and driven to restore some sense of a rule of law in this country. So much to do it's absolutely overwhelming. One foot in front of the other. We will win. History tells us that NAZIS ALWAYS LOSE!!!!
I can completely understand why it seems as though it is a global problem and why it may seem as though China has a capitalist hybrid economy.
And yes, I agree and support a global truth database. Having lived and worked internationally all my life, this isn’t a global problem, it is a problem of what we consider in International Relations to be the political north.
It’s the Westphalian system breaking down. And through ethnocentric glasses. We do not see or understand the differences between 5,000 years of history, we see only a reflection of ourselves, and the past 400 years.
500 years ago, there was a system of trade based on equality and cooperation in the in Indian Ocean. A system build through diplomacy, not warfare.
Then, for 400 year we lived under the state system. This brought borders, colonialism, and imperialism. Now that system is breaking down, and the political north and political south are switching places as the centers of thought and progress.
The political north and the state system, followed by romantic nationalism in the 19th century and the invention of tradition, is all very new.
To put it simply, there are 5,000 years of history and knowledge we know little about. Even I struggle to understand it. In his time, Thomas Jefferson was considered a radical, today it is doubtful he could run for office. A very small group of people wanted the concept of equality to apply universally. His source? A translated version of the Koran.
Jefferson did not shun the idea that “barbaric” or “backwards” people have knowledge or concepts relevant to building a better world. Jefferson’s approach was unique, and many of his ideas were inspired by the world we do not see or understand.
The Jefferson memorial is an important place to visit. To read his works, what he wrote, not what people wrote about him. Adam Smith is a case in point, he detested the wealthy and was a moral theorist and social observer. Our neoliberal economy would be detested by him. And Herbert Spencer, the polymath and morally bankrupt man who created this system of social Darwinism, is never mentioned as the chef architect and inspiration behind our non so modern economic system.
When you find the time I suggest you read both of Smith’s books. The relevant materials from Herbert Spencer, the works of Jefferson, and to look up the new modern political Chinese concept of the 5,000 year old philosophy of “Tianxia”.
Understanding this global idea, this system, which challenges the Westphalian system, would see the removal of boarders, central authorities, the guarantee to peace, prosperity, harmony, and equality for all. Translated, it means “all under the heavens”. China is inviting everyone who wish’s to join and participate or contribute. This thinking is exactly what it seems. Very different. But to think that “national identity” based on ethno-linguistic identity, a shared common history and superior cultural heritage , is so new, and only 170 years old.
For more information please look up Eric Hobsbawm, academic research historian, and author of “the invention of tradition” and “nationalism in the 19th century”.
I would also recommend looking into “Ibn Sina” or his Latin name “Avencina”. But be forewarned, historical revisionism is very important to the enemies of the open society. This is why the system of trade, peace, prosperity, equality, and shared knowledge, created through diplomacy by Zheng He 500 years ago, cannot be read about in English. I trust the sources that come from Singapore or from Korea. In Singapore lying to the public is against the law, and the system of honest academic conduct is a Korean value.
Where do I buy my books from? Surprisingly, I have Tocqueville, Russo, and even 1984 in English from China. They are half the price, uncensored, unabridged, and available online. Be careful not to buy them in Mandarin! Even after tariffs, I wonder, Orwell and the liberal tradition are less expensive and easily available from and in China. Why not so in the political north.
It’s not just about truth, it’s about understanding as well. They have a culture of learning. We have a culture of, as John Stewart put it, “invading countries, and then learning about them afterwards.” That was 20 years ago. And do we understand the world better? Less so. Take a look at Addis Ababa, or the Peru, Brazil, and Chinese relationship. When Brazil and Singapore have proactive democracies, vs our participial democracy, where legitimacy is earned by election and not through the building of democratic institutions, it should not surprise anyone that they can hold their criminal politicians accountable, while the political north praises and encourages hatred and corruption.
Thank you for sharing Angela. There are times when each of us hit the buffers. It took an injured hand to stop me and but me into reflection mode. Together we will prevail
I was wondering where you went! Take the time to fully heal, & treat yourself as your best friend would treat you.
Your analysis of the disgusting rump regime is on point as always.
But of course, I have to comment. Each of us knows our limits w/regards to being exposed to ‘certain realities’ in life. For instance, I don’t expose myself to commentary that is upsetting to my peace of mind. Whether it is on ‘X’ ..or.. from someone who tells me “it’s going to be okay”. I have their number. As far as I am concerned, I am not avoiding the problem. Each of us has to find our role in supporting & fighting for prodemocracy actions.
😂😂😂 very well mate . For a one handed columnist… you certainly are quite verbally dexterous . Hope you heal ✋quickly because I did miss your insights. As for X …. I’ll leave that to you as well as truth social. I found X to be a group of very aggressive and uninformed participants… you can’t point out truth to people who are willfully blind . And Truth Social … well that’s just a propaganda tool.
The Minnesota people are on the front line and they certainly have grit and determination. But this ICE abuse is coming soon to a town near all of us here across the pond . It’s not just the violent tactics used by ICE and border patrol to instill fear … it’s the ongoing violation of our constitutional rights which is the bigger problem . Court orders are being broadly ignored… they are still throwing tear gas and bear spray as well as Yanking observers from their cars and breaking down doors with no warrants . This is state sanctioned violence. This is lawlessness perpetrated against our citizens, civil rights abuse . So what now ? I’d like to see a judge demand Pam Bondi appear before the court and explain why her agents continue to use chemical weapons on observers ? It’s quite simple- take them out of the equation. These guys are armed like special forces or Seals . Subpoena her , if she no shows, get a bench warrant and get the Marshalls to bring her in - cuffed . Then let her testify as to why her agents have not followed the Courts orders. Then hold her in contempt until the DOJ implements new field standards and procedures . Enough of this slow motion justice . Put her ass in jail for a few weeks … right beside the immigrants . The slow moving justice process is a big part of the problem … but the bottom line is we have Republicans in Congress with no courage to stand up for what is right .
Try soaking your hand in Epson salts … it is a miracle cure . 👍🏼😎
Good luck and best wishes for the healing of your hand and plans for the documentary about the peaceful protests and the brave Minnesotans who are on the front lines.🫶🏻❤️
This article has touched me deeply. I see my thoughts on someone else's pathway. The experience we are living through seems like a story from another era or even world! Continue healing. Looking forward to the next step
We all have a microphone on our phone that types your spoken words for you. You just need to learn to speak the punctuation out loud. You should be using that until you are fully healed.
Speech recognition can be very frustrating. I articulate best when I write I’m afraid. I’m sure if I just write every other day until the end of the week, I’ll be back to normal.
"....profit cures all the ills of the world and...it’s better not to waste time worrying about the vulnerable. They are justifiable collateral damage in pursuit of the greater good." Aaaugh! I need to take a look at the German constitution, apparently founded on "human dignity." II need a path to follow that I can believe in. Thanks for your work.
Glad to hear you’re on the mend, and in the saddle. Also glad you’re tuned in to the “enemy chatter” not so easy to stomach. Progress grows out of understanding, yet it’s true what Durruti said, “Fascism is not to be debated, it is to be destroyed!” Keep going with your good work. You are most definitely making a difference! ❤️
Democrats are campaigning as if the 2026 election will be fair. That’s a mistake | Austin Sarat | The Guardian
The following are excerpts from this article:
“Last week, during an Oval Office interview with Reuters, Donald Trump touted his accomplishments and suggested that they were so great that “we shouldn’t even have an election” in November. Not surprisingly, that comment made headlines.
But it is at best a distraction from the real threat: the United States will have elections this year, but they will not be free and fair.
Far more important than his musings about calling off the midterms was what the president told the New York Times in another Oval Office interview. As the Times noted, he said that “he regretted not ordering the National Guard to seize voting machines in swing states after his loss in the 2020 election.”
As the Times observed, “Mr. Trump’s expression of regret … was ... a warning sign that he had not given up on the idea that voting machines were dangerous or that they could be seized in an effort to curb fraud.” We should take that warning seriously.
So far, the leaders of the Democratic party have not. They have focused on mobilizing to compete successfully in November, but have done little to ensure the election is not rigged through executive action, intimidation or interference with vote counting.
In a 16 January podcast interview, Robert Kagan, a historian and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, explained why this is a mistake. Because of Donald Trump’s desire and need for complete domination, he cannot tolerate and will not allow a Republican defeat at the polls.
As Kagan put it: “There’s no chance in the world that Donald Trump is going to allow himself to lose in the 2026 elections, because that would be the end of his ability to wield total power. Unless they got up on the rooftop and said: ‘We are going to subvert the 2026 election,’ they could not be more obvious about what their intention is.”
At the end of the day, the president may be attracted to the idea of rigging the 2026 election not just out of a fear that he will not be able to work his will but because, as scholars suggest, electoral manipulation is a signal to critical audiences (including “bureaucracy, potential defectors within the elite, or powerful stakeholders within civil society”) of his “strength“ and “invincibility”.
Whatever Trump’s motivations, Democrats are making a mistake by underestimating the likelihood that, for all the artful campaigning and the many unpopular things they can pin on Republicans, none of that will matter. They, and all the rest of us, must mobilize to avoid that result.
We have no time to waste.”
• Austin Sarat, William Nelson Cromwell professor of jurisprudence and political science at Amherst College, is the author or editor of more than 100 books, including Gruesome Spectacles: Botched Executions and America’s Death Penalty.
From The Peaceful Solution:
The midterm election
Will it be free and fair? It won’t be. Will it occur at all? His Royal Heinous has already said that if we’re at war there’ll be no election. Guess what? If it’s looking bad for him, we’ll be at war to stop the election. The election is important to him because having the majority in the legislature gives the fascist regime the look of legitimacy.
People are putting too much faith in what the midterms will do. They may have a beneficial psychologic effect but in reality the outcome will have little or no practical effect, unless the Dems can get 2/3 majority in the house and senate, which they won’t. They will not be able to undo anything HRH has done or pass new legislation because of his veto power.
They will impeach HRH, but we’ve seen that movie twice before. Convicted in the senate and removed from office? We can only hope, but hope is not a strategy.
What can we do?
We, the people, still have the power of the purse. No one can control our spending, or lack of spending. The other peaceful options are failing. Time is of the essence. We must go on a spending strike until the business community stops supporting His Royal Heinous and the politicians who enable him.
Stop participating. Nearly 70% of the U.S. economy is driven by consumer spending. You and me. Hobble the economy and the stock market.
Economic warfare is the only thing the oligarchs, the business community will understand and act on. Call it a Surreptitious General Strike (Quiet Quitting). Go to work, do as little as possible. Stop spending money except on essentials. Quit feeding the corporate beast that supports HRH.
This is how we can stop the fascist takeover.
Comments this long quoting other writers should not clog another writer's comments section. Start your own Substack, or maybe just link to the original sources.
And by the way, Martin liked my comment!
Don’t read it!
At least 17 of us read your comment and also liked it. Much food for thought there.
And all of our thoughts need to focus on our clear need to have a (possibly) several weeks or longer economic strike! It's time and necessary; it is clear that the administration will try to rig the midterm elections.
Glad that Martin himself liked your comment, but “Don’t read it!” is not the best reply. Comments should be tightly on topic. It is distracting to have to sort through new topics in the comments section.
Thank you so much. Your words help us to understand at a deeper level. Your dedication isn't lost on us. American patriots need to know there are others like you. Like minded, against white supremacy, and driven to restore some sense of a rule of law in this country. So much to do it's absolutely overwhelming. One foot in front of the other. We will win. History tells us that NAZIS ALWAYS LOSE!!!!
You are most welcome Kristen - Martin
I can completely understand why it seems as though it is a global problem and why it may seem as though China has a capitalist hybrid economy.
And yes, I agree and support a global truth database. Having lived and worked internationally all my life, this isn’t a global problem, it is a problem of what we consider in International Relations to be the political north.
It’s the Westphalian system breaking down. And through ethnocentric glasses. We do not see or understand the differences between 5,000 years of history, we see only a reflection of ourselves, and the past 400 years.
500 years ago, there was a system of trade based on equality and cooperation in the in Indian Ocean. A system build through diplomacy, not warfare.
Then, for 400 year we lived under the state system. This brought borders, colonialism, and imperialism. Now that system is breaking down, and the political north and political south are switching places as the centers of thought and progress.
The political north and the state system, followed by romantic nationalism in the 19th century and the invention of tradition, is all very new.
To put it simply, there are 5,000 years of history and knowledge we know little about. Even I struggle to understand it. In his time, Thomas Jefferson was considered a radical, today it is doubtful he could run for office. A very small group of people wanted the concept of equality to apply universally. His source? A translated version of the Koran.
Jefferson did not shun the idea that “barbaric” or “backwards” people have knowledge or concepts relevant to building a better world. Jefferson’s approach was unique, and many of his ideas were inspired by the world we do not see or understand.
The Jefferson memorial is an important place to visit. To read his works, what he wrote, not what people wrote about him. Adam Smith is a case in point, he detested the wealthy and was a moral theorist and social observer. Our neoliberal economy would be detested by him. And Herbert Spencer, the polymath and morally bankrupt man who created this system of social Darwinism, is never mentioned as the chef architect and inspiration behind our non so modern economic system.
When you find the time I suggest you read both of Smith’s books. The relevant materials from Herbert Spencer, the works of Jefferson, and to look up the new modern political Chinese concept of the 5,000 year old philosophy of “Tianxia”.
Understanding this global idea, this system, which challenges the Westphalian system, would see the removal of boarders, central authorities, the guarantee to peace, prosperity, harmony, and equality for all. Translated, it means “all under the heavens”. China is inviting everyone who wish’s to join and participate or contribute. This thinking is exactly what it seems. Very different. But to think that “national identity” based on ethno-linguistic identity, a shared common history and superior cultural heritage , is so new, and only 170 years old.
For more information please look up Eric Hobsbawm, academic research historian, and author of “the invention of tradition” and “nationalism in the 19th century”.
I would also recommend looking into “Ibn Sina” or his Latin name “Avencina”. But be forewarned, historical revisionism is very important to the enemies of the open society. This is why the system of trade, peace, prosperity, equality, and shared knowledge, created through diplomacy by Zheng He 500 years ago, cannot be read about in English. I trust the sources that come from Singapore or from Korea. In Singapore lying to the public is against the law, and the system of honest academic conduct is a Korean value.
Where do I buy my books from? Surprisingly, I have Tocqueville, Russo, and even 1984 in English from China. They are half the price, uncensored, unabridged, and available online. Be careful not to buy them in Mandarin! Even after tariffs, I wonder, Orwell and the liberal tradition are less expensive and easily available from and in China. Why not so in the political north.
It’s not just about truth, it’s about understanding as well. They have a culture of learning. We have a culture of, as John Stewart put it, “invading countries, and then learning about them afterwards.” That was 20 years ago. And do we understand the world better? Less so. Take a look at Addis Ababa, or the Peru, Brazil, and Chinese relationship. When Brazil and Singapore have proactive democracies, vs our participial democracy, where legitimacy is earned by election and not through the building of democratic institutions, it should not surprise anyone that they can hold their criminal politicians accountable, while the political north praises and encourages hatred and corruption.
I really needed to hear this today, though for the reason that my life is so slow and seemingly meaningless/helpless.
I told my husband night before last that I need to go sit with this depression that has taken hold so I can open myself up to start again afresh.
Thank you for sharing Angela. There are times when each of us hit the buffers. It took an injured hand to stop me and but me into reflection mode. Together we will prevail
This is their design. They said it out loud. Overwhelm them so that the reach "learned helplessness " I fight it with RAGE.
Impractical approach. Break up of disUSA is looming as the only way to stop P2025 techno fascism.
I was wondering where you went! Take the time to fully heal, & treat yourself as your best friend would treat you.
Your analysis of the disgusting rump regime is on point as always.
But of course, I have to comment. Each of us knows our limits w/regards to being exposed to ‘certain realities’ in life. For instance, I don’t expose myself to commentary that is upsetting to my peace of mind. Whether it is on ‘X’ ..or.. from someone who tells me “it’s going to be okay”. I have their number. As far as I am concerned, I am not avoiding the problem. Each of us has to find our role in supporting & fighting for prodemocracy actions.
As ever thanks for your contribution. I don’t doubt for one minute you would EVER avoid a problem my friend. 🤣🤣
😂😂😂 very well mate . For a one handed columnist… you certainly are quite verbally dexterous . Hope you heal ✋quickly because I did miss your insights. As for X …. I’ll leave that to you as well as truth social. I found X to be a group of very aggressive and uninformed participants… you can’t point out truth to people who are willfully blind . And Truth Social … well that’s just a propaganda tool.
The Minnesota people are on the front line and they certainly have grit and determination. But this ICE abuse is coming soon to a town near all of us here across the pond . It’s not just the violent tactics used by ICE and border patrol to instill fear … it’s the ongoing violation of our constitutional rights which is the bigger problem . Court orders are being broadly ignored… they are still throwing tear gas and bear spray as well as Yanking observers from their cars and breaking down doors with no warrants . This is state sanctioned violence. This is lawlessness perpetrated against our citizens, civil rights abuse . So what now ? I’d like to see a judge demand Pam Bondi appear before the court and explain why her agents continue to use chemical weapons on observers ? It’s quite simple- take them out of the equation. These guys are armed like special forces or Seals . Subpoena her , if she no shows, get a bench warrant and get the Marshalls to bring her in - cuffed . Then let her testify as to why her agents have not followed the Courts orders. Then hold her in contempt until the DOJ implements new field standards and procedures . Enough of this slow motion justice . Put her ass in jail for a few weeks … right beside the immigrants . The slow moving justice process is a big part of the problem … but the bottom line is we have Republicans in Congress with no courage to stand up for what is right .
Try soaking your hand in Epson salts … it is a miracle cure . 👍🏼😎
I’ll keep my response short - I agree 🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂try Epson salt…
Take care of yourself. Don’t be shy about resting.
Thanks Laura, I’m pacing myself. It’s just a bit frustrating.
Keep musing. The Heritage Foundation after 50 years and financed by Koch Brothers coal has just about succeeded.
Good luck and best wishes for the healing of your hand and plans for the documentary about the peaceful protests and the brave Minnesotans who are on the front lines.🫶🏻❤️
Forgive and don’t forget.
Take a lesson learnt.
Trust is now forever skeptical.
Know the signs of deceit.
Can you tell I’m a Scorpio?
Also known as the Three Pillars of Trumpism!
This article has touched me deeply. I see my thoughts on someone else's pathway. The experience we are living through seems like a story from another era or even world! Continue healing. Looking forward to the next step
We all have a microphone on our phone that types your spoken words for you. You just need to learn to speak the punctuation out loud. You should be using that until you are fully healed.
Speech recognition can be very frustrating. I articulate best when I write I’m afraid. I’m sure if I just write every other day until the end of the week, I’ll be back to normal.
I don't use it either. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
"....profit cures all the ills of the world and...it’s better not to waste time worrying about the vulnerable. They are justifiable collateral damage in pursuit of the greater good." Aaaugh! I need to take a look at the German constitution, apparently founded on "human dignity." II need a path to follow that I can believe in. Thanks for your work.
Glad to hear you’re on the mend, and in the saddle. Also glad you’re tuned in to the “enemy chatter” not so easy to stomach. Progress grows out of understanding, yet it’s true what Durruti said, “Fascism is not to be debated, it is to be destroyed!” Keep going with your good work. You are most definitely making a difference! ❤️