In today's political climate, separating local politics from events in Washington, D.C., and Raleigh is nearly impossible. We find ourselves drawn into the larger political agenda even when we make genuine efforts to avoid it.
When a sitting U.S. President addresses the nation, it is customary for all television networks to broadcast the speech. Recognizing that media choices influence public perception and understanding can empower citizens to seek unfiltered information, making them feel responsible for their role in democracy.
It would be an understatement to say that some news networks have a strong dislike for the President. However, when two major television networks chose not to broadcast President Trump’s speech, they made a decision not just for their networks, but also for millions of citizens. Citizens deserve unfiltered access to information and denying the public the opportunity to decide whether to listen to the President undermines this fundamental right, which is essential for a healthy democracy.
In a free society, it is not the role of news gatekeepers to determine what information the public should have access to. Journalists have a responsibility to fact-check the individuals they report on, but trying to silence public officials runs counter to the principles of democracy and the public's right to unfiltered political speech.
President Trump's speech focused on election integrity, a contentious issue among his opponents. His critics argue that American elections are secure and maintain that there is little evidence to suggest that the political process in the United States is compromised. However, in his speech, Trump asserts that there is evidence to the contrary and backs his claims with declassified documents that are accessible not only to the media but also to ordinary citizens. This can help citizens feel empowered to seek and evaluate information themselves.
Time will reveal the truth about this matter, and the American public deserves to hear this speech, regardless of whether he is liked or not. Ensuring access to all viewpoints helps citizens feel respected and fosters trust in the democratic process.
Democrats and Republicans have historically found themselves on opposing sides, but the state of political discourse in our country has recently deteriorated to a concerning level. Those who doubt this decline need only look at our local Board of Elections in Cumberland County for evidence of the chaos. Democratic board members, who are in the minority, continually bring charges against their Republican board chair. Still, these allegations are repeatedly dismissed by the State Board of Elections, which has a Republican majority.
Many Americans are increasingly disenchanted with both political parties, as evidenced by unaffiliated voters becoming the largest voting bloc in several states, including North Carolina. I wish there were easy answers to solve this quandary, but realistically, we all know the problem is not in politics; the problem is in the people.
No matter how you feel, let’s not lose hope. The political season is just around the corner, and I hope you’re ready for all that comes with it. Most importantly, I encourage you to fulfill your civic duty by voting for the candidate of your choice. That is your right.