Republicans at the Democratic National Convention urged voters to put America’s democratic values above party loyalty.
At a Glance
- The Republican Party is seen as a significant threat to American democracy, becoming increasingly radical and obstructionist.
- Over 90% of hardcore Trump supporters oppose easier voting access, and 70% support an unconstitutional third term for Trump.
- Nearly two in five Republicans believe force could be justified against political opponents.
- These actions are seen as efforts to block the emergence of multiracial political majorities and maintain white political dominance.
Republicans at DNC Push for Democracy Over Partisanship
During the Democratic National Convention, several prominent Republicans spoke out against former President Donald Trump. They implored voters to prioritize national unity and the preservation of democratic institutions. Emphasizing the importance of democracy over party loyalty, these Republicans urged constituents to consider the broader implications of their votes for the future of American values.
“Former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, former Pence homeland security adviser Olivia Troye and former Trump White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham have all thrown their support behind the Democratic nominee and suggested Trump lacks the moral character to lead the nation again. Former Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger is also expected to speak.”
The Republican Party is viewed by many as a significant threat to American democracy. Recent studies indicate that the party has grown increasingly radical and obstructionist. Surveys show that hardcore Trump supporters hold anti-democratic views, with over 90% opposing easier voting access and 70% supporting an unconstitutional third term for Trump.
Republicans at the DNC urge anti-Trump voters to put ‘country over party’ https://t.co/SSJOFz0st9
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) August 22, 2024
Persistent Political Violence Concerns
Nearly two in five Republicans believe that using force against political opponents can be justified. This sentiment persisted even after the January 6 attack on the Capitol. Hyperpolarization has intensified, making Republicans view Democrats not just as political rivals but as existential threats, for some.
This growing animosity is accompanied by attempts to restrict voting rights. Numerous states, particularly those with Republican majorities, have passed voter restriction laws between 2010 and 2019. Actions taken by Republican lawmakers reveal a concerted effort to maintain white political dominance by blocking multiracial political majorities.
It is incredibly dishonest that Democrats at the DNC told voters every single night that "Project 2025" is Trump's policy despite knowing it is not his platform.
An honest party, one that values democracy, would have discussed Trump's actual plan, Agenda 47, and his real…
— Republican Party of New Mexico (@NewMexicoGOP) August 22, 2024
Shifting Away from Democratic Norms
Internationally, the GOP is now considered an outlier, performing poorly on respecting democratic norms and minority rights. These trends, driven by racial conflicts and supported by partisan media, reflect a shift towards authoritarianism. Efforts by Republican-controlled legislatures to reject election outcomes and enact regressive voting laws further signal this direction.
“American democracy is at a dangerous inflection point. The moment requires a step-change in strategy and support.”
The surge in restrictive voting legislation parallels the controversy brought on after the 2020 election by Donald Trump. Experts argue that democratic erosion in the U.S. will continue subtly and incrementally unless addressed. The stakes are high, requiring strategic actions to protect and strengthen democratic processes.
Sources
1. These Republicans denounced Trump and endorsed Harris at the DNC. Here’s what they said.
2. Five Strategies to Support U.S. Democracy
