The peaceful transition of power has been a cornerstone of American democracy since George Washington first handed the reins to John Adams in 1797. For over two centuries, this sacred tradition has weathered civil war, world wars, and countless political storms.
But now, some prominent Democrats are floating an unprecedented proposal that threatens to upend this foundational principle of our republic.
Even as both chambers of Congress prepare for the traditional January certification of electoral votes, certain voices from the left are pushing for what many see as a dangerous departure from constitutional norms.
In a stunning opinion piece published in The Hill, Democrat-linked lawyers Evan Davis and David Schulte have called for Congress to block President-elect Donald Trump from taking office. They’ve suggested that Vice President Kamala Harris – who lost to Trump in the 2024 contest – could be elected president instead.
Republicans Fire Back
If you’re thinking this sounds like a constitutional crisis in the making, you’re not alone.
“This is how Democrats envision democracy,” declared Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC). “There is no fair and impartial process in the Left’s America.”
Her sentiment was echoed across Capitol Hill as lawmakers from both parties condemned the radical proposal.
The lawyers’ argument centers on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, claiming there is “overwhelming” evidence of Trump engaging in insurrection that disqualifies him from the presidency. They suggest that if both chambers spurned Trump’s Electoral College votes, Harris could assume the presidency – despite losing the election.
Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) highlighted the left’s selective use of terminology.
“They use the word ‘insurrection’ only when talking about Republicans,” he noted.
And there it is – the perfect encapsulation of the double standard that’s become all too familiar.
Notably, even prominent Democrats have distanced themselves from the proposal. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) publicly rejected the idea, stating, “If you only believe in democracy when it produces the results you like, then you do not truly believe in democracy.”
Constitutional scholars have expressed skepticism about the legal basis for such a move. Dr. Elaine Robertson, a professor of constitutional law at Georgetown University, points out, “While the 14th Amendment provides a mechanism, it’s a narrow and highly contested path. This would be unprecedented in American history.”
The Supreme Court has already weighed in on similar attempts to block Trump. In March of 2024, it ruled that states cannot unilaterally remove him from their ballots using the 14th Amendment without Congressional action first. The decision effectively closed one avenue for challenging Trump’s eligibility.
Trump Responds Through Spokesman
Trump’s campaign spokesman Steven Cheung responded forcefully to the proposal.
“Oh, look,” he said. “Democrats want to steal the election and invalidate the will of the American people. Threat to Democracy.”
His statement reflects growing conservative concerns about what they see as systematic attempts to undermine electoral outcomes that don’t favor the left.
Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA) put it bluntly: “Never tell me that they haven’t tried to steal the election.”
The sentiment reflects widespread Republican frustration with what they view as continued attempts to circumvent the democratic process.
Legal experts note that with Republicans leading both the House and Senate in the next term, any serious attempt to block Trump’s return to the White House would face insurmountable obstacles. However, the mere suggestion of such action has raised alarms about the erosion of democratic norms.
Let’s be clear about what’s really happening here: this isn’t about constitutional interpretation. Instead, it’s about attempting to override the will of the American people.
The controversy comes at a time when many Americans are calling for unity and respect for democratic institutions. As Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) succinctly stated, “This is insane. And it’s not a thing.”
As January 6, 2025, approaches – the day Congress will certify the electoral votes – this latest controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting America’s democratic traditions. While legal scholars can debate constitutional interpretations, the fundamental principle remains clear: in a democracy, the people’s voice, expressed through free and fair elections, must prevail.
The American experiment has endured for nearly two and a half centuries precisely because of our commitment to peaceful transitions of power and respect for the will of the voters. As this latest challenge demonstrates, preserving these principles requires constant vigilance and an unwavering commitment to constitutional order over partisan preference.
Key Takeaways:
- Democrat lawyers suggest bypassing electoral college to keep Trump from office.
- Bipartisan rejection shows growing divide between political elites and voters.
- Supreme Court has already rejected similar attempts to block Trump’s eligibility.
- Constitutional scholars warn of dangerous precedent for future elections.
Sources: Daily Wire, Daily Mail, Newsweek, Econo Times
