Just in: Man Who Allegedly Tried To Overturn Election Is Free To Run For President Again
We the people hope that our elected officials, specifically presidents, will do whatever it takes to keep our democracy protected. Before a president is sworn into office, they must vow “to the best of [their] Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” (U.S. Const., article II, section 1.) What would it mean for our democracy if someone tried to alter the results of an election, and was still able to run for office in the future?
If anyone is convicted for tampering with an election, they should not be able to run for any positions in government. Currently, there is no protection in the Constitution that would prevent a criminal from running for president. I do not blame the founding fathers for this; I am sure they did not expect that a very popular presidential candidate would be charged with election fraud.
Former president Donald Trump, one of the Republicans working to receive a 2024 presidential nominee, has found himself in an interesting position. He has allegedly been caught in a phone call asking the Georgia secretary of state to help him “find 11,780 votes” in his favor.
It is unfortunate to see that for many people, Trump being reelected is more important than the honesty of how our democracy works. If he is not held accountable for his illegal actions, including inciting an act of domestic terrorism on Jan. 6 2021, a dangerous precedent is set: a former U.S. president can do whatever they want, regardless of the consequences.
Yet, I worry more about what would happen if Trump is convicted. He would still be able to run for president. Trump is being accused of serious crimes. Both democrats and republicans should agree that anyone who has attempted or carried out election fraud is not allowed to run for president, as it would set the stage for an unbelievable election.
