Political Parties and the U.S. Government – Democracy Requires More than One Voice

Image via WikipediaI have never believed that our government should be controlled by one party. In a democratic society, there is more than one school of thought that needs to be addressed, and many voices that need to be heard.

While I lean more centrist to conservative, I recognize the value of having a healthy mix of liberal ideas and plans in the rule of the country, side-by-side with a healthy mix of conservative ideas and plans. I believe having a good mix of both protects the people and ensures more is done for the ‘common good’ of the people as a whole than for party lines.

I have watched as the parties have changed over the years, primarily the Republican Party. There was a time when each of the two major parties had clear doctrines and clear stances. Now both have become a mish-mash of extremism and centralism, overlapping each other in some areas.

When it becomes more about getting votes than standing for something, the people suffer. When it becomes more about poll numbers than doing what is right for the people as a whole, the country suffers.

I am aware of a movement to return one party to its roots and get back on track. Though I do not agree with every statement made (especially when the other party is attacked), I do believe the overall concept is a good one. The movement is one to rebuild the Republican Party, and the link leads to the Facebook portal for it.

If you know of any other grassroots movements to rebuild, restructure, or otherwise change any of the U.S. political parties, please let me know and I will review and add them here.

Government 101: Types of Government Rule - Democracy, Republic, and more

Image via WikipediaDue to this year being an election year as well as the year the Olympics are in China, many aspects of government, freedom, and laws have been on my mind.

Like many, I have mistakenly referred to our government as a 'democracy', when in fact we are a 'republic'. I have also observed that many Americans do not understand the basics of our governmental structure - or what the President really does (i.e. his role, responsibilities, and limits in power).

Over the course of several posts, I will be covering these basic concepts for your benefit as well as my own. Educated and informed citizens are responsible citizens who know not only how to elect the best people, but know how to 'demand' the best from those in office.

Types of Government by Alverno College (Wisconsin)

Types of Government by Country

If there is any particular aspect of how our government is set up or how our electoral process works that you would like me to cover, please contact me.