From the Chairman’s Desk: What does it mean to be a Republican?

There are many forms of government which have been established by man. Two of the most predominant in western culture are either republic or democratic in nature—and almost certainly a blend of the two. Many mistakenly believe we live in a democracy. Thankfully we do not. Our form of government is more aptly described as a Constitutional Republic. So what’s the difference and why does it matter?

In a pure democracy, “the majority has their way and the minority gets their say”. It’s a catchy little phrase but in its unqualified form it’s riddled with danger. It’s the polite way of describing mob rule. When mob rule is allowed to foster, nothing prevents the 99 from depriving the 1 of their life, liberty, or property. Imagine living in a homeowners association where you can simply be evicted from your home by a vote? That is the despotic outcome of an unchecked democracy.

Just like a democracy, a Constitutional Republic bends to the will of the majority. However, the minority is protected by the Rule of Law. This is a hallmark characteristic of the Constitutional Republic. As a one-liner it can be described as “majority rule, minority rights”. Unlike a democracy, a Constitutional Republic recognizes there are certain boundaries that cannot be transgressed. Even with a unanimous vote, there is no provision for violating the law. The witty expression “rules are made to be broken” has no place in this form of government.

I began this article asking the question, “does it matter?”  If protecting your God given right to life, liberty, and property are important, then the answer is “yes”.  However, the United States Constitution continues to be an obstacle to those who would otherwise encroach.  Infact, recently the NY Times featured the rantings of Harvard and Yale professors lamenting that the Constitution is “undemocratic”.  Again, thank goodness!  Good government is government restrained.

As you go out to the polls in November and cast your vote, remember that Republicans and Democrats not only think differently about taxes, individual liberty, and morality.  They also think very differently about the role of government in preserving individual sovereignty.