OPINION: Beyond the binary illusion of American democracy – The Cauldron
Turning 18 in the United States of America can feel like a disillusioning experience.
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This nation boasts about its values of freedom, democracy, equality, opportunity, military prowess, diversity, inclusion, and adherence to the rule of law. However, as I come of age, I cannot shake the feeling that these ideals are often more rhetoric than reality. It is disheartening to see how these principles are not always reflected in the actions of our leaders and the functioning of our society.
I hit the milestone of turning 20 when Joe Biden took office as president. It was my first time getting involved in the electoral process, and I was genuinely excited about it. I was so eager to vote that I even signed up to work at the polls.
But as the election unfolded, I could not shake off this unsettling feeling. It felt like the system handed me only two choices, both of whom were old white guys pushing 80, competing for a position that now seemed to wield an almost-divine power over the American people.
Here I am, a whole four years down the line, smack dab in my mid-twenties, and what do I face? The same old unrealistic choice: Democrat or Republican. Can you believe it? Biden versus Trump. AGAIN. The kicker? Trump’s now up against a whopping 91 felonies. And as for Biden? Well, apparently this man has directed $250 million to Israel since Oct. 7. All in the name of backing what many see as the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, all while it is estimated that 13 million children in America suffer from food insecurities. Where do our priorities lie, Biden? Murdering children and letting them starve? I hate that it is even a question.
It feels like déjà vu, or whatever you want to call it, but honestly, I feel stuck.
At 21, I threw myself into studying the ins and outs of politics and economics. I am driven by this deep-seated need to understand not just America, but the entire world. I spend hours devouring information, trying to make sense of how things got to be the way they are, and how to make the world a better place.
Amidst all this learning and growing, one thing remains clear—I have the right, as an American, to cast my vote for whoever the hell I want. So why does it feel like I am being shoved into this binary choice between Democrat and Republican? Between two candidates who are seemingly acting inhumane, at that!
Why does it seem like everyone, from my peers to the whole entire country, keep parroting the line, “A vote for anyone but Biden is a vote for Trump,” and vice versa? I’m sorry, but I just can’t swallow that. My vote, my voice—it’s not some limited-edition commodity stuck between two sides of the same coin.
There is no lesser of two evils, America. If there were, I’d rather abstain from voting entirely.
I refuse to accept such a narrow view of my civic responsibility. I strongly believe in the transformative power of change, and I will not silence my voice to perpetuate a system that fails to truly represent the entirety of American people.
As I move forward, I am dedicated to advocating for genuine alternatives like non-party affiliated presidential campaigns and striving for a society that is more inclusive and democratic. My hope is that my generation will share this commitment and work alongside me towards these goals.
Until then, Godspeed, America.
Disclaimer: This article in no way reflects the views of The Cauldron and its staff. It only reflects the views of the columnist.