I Am A Democrat

Why Are We Democrats?

As many of you know, pursuant to obtaining a grant, the Indian River County Democratic Executive Committee is videotaping members expressing why we are Democrats. That prompted me to give thought to what I have taken for granted for most of my life. Although I could write a long tome on it, here is the essence of what holds true for me.

I believe in the observation that there are two kinds of people: those that fear the future and those who embrace it. Because the future cannot be stopped, those who embrace it and try to shape it for good will almost always triumph. Thus, I am progressive — which means I must be a Democrat.

I believe that certain principles are timeless and eternally true. These are generally the observations of The Enlightenment on government as a social contract deriving its just power from the consent of the governed, and human rights and dignity incorporated in the living foundational documents of our nation. Put most simply, it is that we are a a nation under the rule of law not the whims of men and that justice, which is always social justice, is the unending goal of a free society. Thus, I am a believer in the eternal quest for justice, equal rights, and equal protection for all — which means I must be a Democrat.

I believe that good government can do good, that it can partner with the private sector to solve problems. Its courts, legislatures and agencies must strive to fairly balance interests and rights while protecting our liberty. Most importantly, we the people have an obligation not to shirk our civic responsibility. We are the ultimate protectors and supporters of good government. We are watch dogs against abuse, ensuring our representatives and civil servants do what is right even if it is not easy and even if it bucks the powerful to protect the weak. Thus, I am politically involved but not for my benefit alone — which means I must be a Democrat.