Today, across the nation, numerous protests are taking place, organized by various left-leaning groups, unions, and organizations, with people chanting “kings, kings, kings.” This seems to be a deliberate effort to promote the idea that Donald Trump has taken on dictatorial powers.
It’s a curious situation, really, given that our constitutional system appears to be functioning exactly as it was intended. The Constitution was created during a time of great political tension, and it seems well-equipped for our current challenges. Courts have made decisions both supporting and opposing the Trump administration, and Congress has been actively assessing and addressing various issues. We have one of the longest-standing and most stable constitutional systems anywhere, which, while not without competition, has a pretty solid track record for resolving conflicts over the last couple of centuries.
This campaign’s immediate appeal is evident, largely sparked by the Trump administration’s plans for a parade celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army—a common celebration among nations like France and the UK.
This anniversary also happens to coincide with Trump’s birthday, leading some to label it nothing more than a royal birthday celebration, even though he’s been advocating for such a military parade since his first term.
These protests, backed by substantial funding, are being driven by Democratic leaders. They are reiterating the idea that the public must either voice their dissent this weekend or risk embracing tyranny, as noted by U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D., California).
It seems like Democrats are banking on the theme of “democratic death,” which didn’t resonate well in the last election, to somehow revive the party amidst record low approval ratings. In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson has remarked on the importance of rallying the city against this moment.
A few judges have even joined this narrative. For example, before Trump ordered the cessation of the National Guard’s deployment in Los Angeles, District Judge Charles Breyer referred to Trump as another “King George.”
In his court opinions, Breyer suggested that Trump is creating hurdles by deploying the National Guard. Interestingly, he pointed out that violence in Los Angeles has been relatively minor, despite the potential threats to law enforcement from arson and looting incidents.
There’s a debate brewing on both sides of this issue, with some suggesting that since the Madison administration, the Supreme Court has cautioned lower courts against speculating unnecessarily in their judgments. Rather than adhering strictly to federal and state powers concerning deployment orders, Judge Breyer seems to be diving headfirst into the political fray surrounding these situations.
It gives the impression that Governor Gavin Newsom (D) might have influenced Judge Breyer’s stance.
The “king” rhetoric aims to instill a sense of urgency in the public perception, despite scant evidence that democracy is under severe threat.
This phenomenon reflects what some call a fantastical truth effect, where repeated falsehoods can shape beliefs over time. Ironically, this technique often gets cited by the same critics as a reason for censorship of opposing views.
Yet, what’s disinformation for some serves as information for others. The sentiment “democracy is dying” may seem far-fetched, yet it’s a rallying cry for many, protected by the right to free speech, even if it’s wrapped in exaggeration.
What remains concerning is how the rhetoric from these Democratic leaders can incite the more extreme and violent factions within our country.
This narrative reinforces a sense of no-holds-barred confrontational messaging.
People witness actions by indifferent members like Representative Lemonica McQuiber (D.-NJ), who confronts federal officials, and they don’t miss the implications of those actions.
They remember Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif) from prior riots, expressing outrage against California law enforcement by declaring, “You’d better shoot straight.”
Anger seems to be encouraged as a means of opposition to Trump, though it is often unspoken that they rely on that anger. It almost appears like they thrive on it.
A press conference with Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif) showcased this well; he not only shouted at Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem but resisted efforts to be ushered away for security. He subsequently claimed to be a victim of authoritarianism.
The right to be confused doesn’t necessarily support a democratic framework; it can lead to disorder. The Democrats seem to have embraced this disruptive strategy, akin to the actions of former Representative Jamal Bowman (D-N.Y.) who pulled a fire alarm to halt voting on the House floor.
Before his ousting, Bowman was caught on video expressing distress over gun control right before leaving the floor after a vote. Various Democrats attempted to console him, but when Congressman Thomas Massey (R-Ky.) asked him to calm down, he retorted, “I was screaming before you interrupted me.”
This weekend, whatever occurs, the blame will fall on Trump. There are plans for national turbulence, and many see the direction of our Republic as being at stake.
