Democrats: Stop apologizing and fight for our democracy

America is at a crossroads, teetering on the brink of an anti-democratic abyss. But here’s the crucial truth: Democrats can still win. The presidency is not lost. Victory is within our grasp, if we unite and act with purpose and without apologies. 

America must vote affirmatively or defensively, but unapologetically, and with a clear purpose: to protect our nation’s future. The Republican coup never stopped, and neither should we. The only person coming to save us is us.

We cannot afford to shy away from criticizing those who threaten our democracy, regardless of potential backlash. Fear and timidity in the face of autocratic ambitions only emboldens those who would undermine our republic. This is a time for courage, speaking truth to power and standing firm in defense of our principles.

Democrats shouldn’t walk around apologetic for an assassination attempt they had no part in. We shouldn’t apologize for actions that aren’t ours. We wished Donald Trump well and hoped for his good health. Now it’s time to defeat him through our votes. 

We need a Democratic Party that fights with the same fierce determination as those who aim to undermine our democracy. And the nation must vote like our lives depend on it. This moment demands nothing less.

When Democrats hear calls for “unity” from those who have sown division and chaos, we must recognize them for what they are: thinly veiled demands for acquiescence and submission. True unity isn’t achieved through capitulation to autocratic ambitions but through a steadfast defense of our shared democratic values. 

We cannot afford to be silent spectators to the dismantling of our republic. Our vote is our shield against the erosion of our fundamental rights and freedoms. A defensive vote is a perfectly reasonable strategy when democracy is on the line.

Maintaining control of the Senate, reclaiming the presidency and winning the House are not just political goals; they are necessities for safeguarding our democratic institutions. Every seat, every vote, every campaign must be approached with the understanding that the future of our democracy hangs in the balance.

This fight is bigger than Joe Biden, Kamala Harris or any single Democrat. This is about defending our democratic values. You don’t need to be a die-hard Biden supporter to see that any vote against him if he is the Democratic candidate is a vote against democracy. 

The upcoming election is not a routine exercise in civic duty; it is a watershed moment defining the future of our republic. The stakes are sky-high: preserve our democratic institutions or succumb to autocratic rule. 

The threat we face isn’t new but the result of years of sustained assault on democracy’s pillars. From his inauguration, Trump systematically worked to undermine the foundations of our republic. His actions continuously affronted democratic norms, the rule of law and the principles of accountability that underpin our system of government.

We are in an unprecedented situation where a former president, having already shown a blatant disregard for constitutional norms, stands poised to potentially reclaim power while evading legal consequences for his actions. This isn’t a mere technicality; it challenges the notion that no one is above the law. The gravity of this moment cannot be overstated.

This election is a referendum on who we are as a nation. It’s about the values we hold dear, the principles we stand for and the future we envision for generations to come. It’s about choosing between the hard work of democracy and the false promises of autocracy.

The assault on our democracy has been relentless, but so too must be our defense. This isn’t about personal preferences or perfect candidates; it’s about the survival of our democracy. We have the power to vote defensively, to protect what matters most.

The future of our republic hangs in the balance. The task before us is monumental, but not insurmountable. 

Now is not the time for weak knees or bent backs. Quitting is not an option. 

Michael Starr Hopkins is the host of “It Matters with Michael Starr Hopkins.”