In a perfect and just America, who possesses the greater political power – the rich and wealthy or the language contained within the U.S. Constitution? Answer: The U.S. Constitution, namely, “We the People” as completely defined therein. Therefore, in this ideal context, “We the People” may possess the power, but, in reality, could the rich and wealthy control our overall political voice? Maybe. Why is this the case?

In several cases decided by the Warren court in the 1960s, the principle of “one person, one vote” was invoked. Power to the person! However, in 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court subverted this basic democratic principle by allowing corporations and super PACs to spend unlimited funds on elections. Who cares? We should.

This judicial decision, made in the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case, eroded the power embedded within ‘We the People” and placed an enhanced political voice under control of “non-persons.” This U.S. Supreme Court, therefore, became a change agent for the monied class. Voice to non-person, corporate entities!

Is there an equalizer to this serious conundrum? Yes. Even with a subdued political voice, “We the People” still retain the legal power. How? By voting with our sheer majority. In every election, therefore, we must support candidates who endorse the “person,” rather than being corrupted by the voices of the affluent minority.

John M. Mishler
Harpswell

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