By Matthew Hayward: It's high time we address a common error: calling the United States a 'democracy.' This isn't just about getting a term wrong; it's about misrepresenting the very essence of our government. We are a constitutional republic, where elected representatives make decisions within a framework designed to protect individual rights, unlike a direct democracy where the majority has the final say. This isn't just semantics. It's about understanding and respecting the structure that defends our liberties from majoritarian impulses. Republicans, politicians, and public figures should lead by example and use 'republic' to describe our system. I often hear phrases like 'saving our democracy' or 'threats to our democracy' in political discourse, especially from liberal commentators. These phrases oversimplify and misrepresent our complex system. Let's encourage everyone, especially those in influential positions, to use accur...

By Matthew Hayward Gradualism, also known as incrementalism, is an approach in politics where policies or changes are implemented gradually, leading to significant transformations over time. Although this approach has merits in some contexts, it can pose a danger to a Republic when it undermines the constitutional amendment process. Drawing on the wisdom of George Washington and considering specific examples, this blog will emphasize the importance of adhering to the Constitution and its amendment process while examining the consequences of gradualism in politics. Gradualism and the Constitution The Constitution serves as the foundational document of the United States, providing a blueprint for governance and safeguarding citizens' rights. Gradualism, however, can threaten the Constitution's relevance, as it allows politicians to bypass its provisions to achieve their objectives. Through gradual policy changes, politicians can circumvent the constitutional amendment process and...