A Common Something To Hope For

A Common Something to Hope For

I recently came across a quote from President Biden in response to a letter asking what is needed for a good life. He answered, "Something to do. Someone to love. And something to hope for."

This simple yet profound idea made me reflect: while there may not be a common prescription for the “someone to love” aspect of President Biden’s advice, I believe we can do better in providing “something to do” and “something to hope for.” As we approach the upcoming presidential election, one shared hope stands out—the peaceful transition of power, a cornerstone of our democracy that unites us across our differences.

Many of the challenges Americans face today allow for a wide range of legitimate perspectives. In cities across the country, people are grappling with affordable housing shortages, inadequate public transportation, and rising income inequality. These issues affect individuals differently, leading to diverse opinions on how best to resolve them. While I might hope for solutions to be approached one way, others with different viewpoints may legitimately advocate for distinct or even conflicting approaches.

Yet despite our differences, one thing all Americans have in common is a vested interest in ensuring a peaceful transition of power after the upcoming election. This transition is not only foundational for addressing the complex issues we face but is also crucial for the stability and future of cities, towns, and communities across the country. Without it, our ability to tackle the challenges ahead would be severely undermined.

Urban centers, in particular, rely on the smooth transfer of power to ensure stability in governance. Cities are the economic, cultural, and social hubs of the country, and any disruption to political leadership can lead to uncertainty that undermines their capacity to function effectively.

A seamless transfer of authority ensures that policies affecting public services, housing, transportation, and education continue without interruption. This continuity is vital for the millions who depend on these services. Furthermore, when power is handed over peacefully, it reinforces the trust between local governments and the communities they serve, providing a sense of security and stability.

The importance of a peaceful transition extends beyond cities into their surrounding areas. The economic influence of cities reaches far into rural regions, impacting national and global markets. A contested or chaotic transfer of power could disrupt investments, slow infrastructure projects, and exacerbate issues like housing affordability and public safety. Businesses, both urban and rural, depend on political stability. Uncertainty can lead to harmful decisions, such as halting expansions, reducing hiring, or relocating operations. For the long-term prosperity of cities and their hinterlands, political transitions at the national level must remain smooth and orderly.

Moreover, the peaceful transition of power reaffirms our democratic values, which are essential for urban populations—diverse and politically engaged—to safeguard their rights and interests. Social movements advocating for equity, justice, and climate action often find their momentum in cities. Any disruption to the democratic process could stall progress on these critical issues. A smooth transition ensures that the voices of these movements continue to be heard, signaling that change can occur within a stable, democratic framework, allowing urban areas to thrive and innovate.

Fortunately, the peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of American democracy, a tradition that began with George Washington. In 1797, after serving two terms as president, Washington voluntarily stepped down, setting a precedent for the peaceful transfer of authority. His actions demonstrated that power was not something to be clung to but passed on for the good of the nation. This tradition has held firm for over two centuries, even during times of political and social upheaval.

For example, after the highly divisive election of 1860, Abraham Lincoln assumed the presidency amidst the looming Civil War. Despite profound differences, his predecessor, James Buchanan, upheld the democratic process. Similarly, in the 2000 election, when the Supreme Court’s ruling in Bush v. Gore effectively decided the outcome, Al Gore’s concession speech reinforced the strength of this tradition. "For the sake of our unity as a people and the strength of our democracy," Gore said, "I offer my concession." His actions helped prevent a potential constitutional crisis, reminding us that the peaceful transition of power is crucial for maintaining democracy.

However, this tradition was challenged after the 2020 election. Former President Donald Trump made repeated, false claims of victory and went to extremes to avoid the peaceful transfer of power, culminating in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. His behavior was far more in line with the lessons taught by his long-time mentor, Roy Cohn: attack, admit nothing, deny everything, and never concede defeat. This marked a dangerous deviation from the longstanding norm that has underpinned American democracy.

What will happen after the upcoming election is yet to be seen.

Based upon her history as Attorney General of the State of California, US Senator from California, and Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris gives no reason to suspect she would deviate from the longstanding norms of conceding gracefully if she were to lose.  Indeed, she has indicated that she would accept the results of the election if she loses. In interviews, such as recent one with The Howard Stern Show, she emphasized that refusing to concede defeat after a fair election is a sign of weakness. Harris made it clear that she views the act of conceding loss as a crucial part of upholding democratic values.

Donald Trump, on the other hand, has demonstrated how far he will go to follow Cohn’s advice in his pursuit of power.  He still has not formally admitted defeat in the 2020 election.  Indeed, since the 2020 election, he has consistently claimed, without providing substantial evidence, that the election was rigged or stolen through widespread voter fraud. Despite numerous legal challenges and recounts that upheld the results, Trump has maintained his position that he won the election, and he continues to challenge its legitimacy.  Moreover, his rhetoric has repeatedly avoided a clear commitment to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses in 2024, suggesting instead that if he loses, his defeat would most likely be due to election fraud.      

Similarly, as reported by New York Times on October 12, in an interview with Senator JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, Vance was asked and refused to answer five times whether Trump lost in 2020 (“Vance, Given Five Chances to Say Trump Lost in 2020, Takes None”).    

As a nation, we can only hope that the upcoming election, regardless of its outcome, will reaffirm the peaceful transition of power—a hope that unites us all.

In line with the second part of President Biden’s response, what can American citizens do in common to bring this hope to fruition? American citizens can play a crucial role in ensuring the peaceful transfer of power after the upcoming election by actively participating in the democratic process.

Voting is the most direct way to support a fair and legitimate outcome. Encouraging others to vote further strengthens the integrity of the process. Additionally, promoting civility in political discourse, respecting democratic institutions, and rejecting disinformation are key steps. By being mindful of the information they share and supporting fact-based discussions, citizens can help counteract false narratives that could undermine trust in the election results.

Citizens can also hold leaders accountable by insisting that candidates respect the election’s outcome and publicly commit to a peaceful transition. Engaging in peaceful advocacy and fostering dialogue across political divides, such as through the organization ‘Braver Angels,’ can reduce polarization and promote understanding, helping to maintain social stability. Supporting organizations that defend democratic principles and monitor elections further strengthens the democratic system. By working together in these ways, Americans can reinforce the tradition of a peaceful transfer of power, ensuring the continued health of the nation’s democracy.

Finally, in keeping with the third tenet of President Biden’s advice, may you all have an abundance of people to love in your lives.

Bill Bowen