“Fast Food Politics”

c. 2017 Rod Ice

All rights reserved

(7-17)

Libertarian.

One cannot even speak this term in America without evoking all sorts of conflicting emotions, hasty conclusions, misguided thoughts and bias. It is a label of sorts that seems to tear at the fabric of our stilted political reality.

One or the other. But nothing more.

A week or two before Election Day, one of my friends observed that she wished we had other choices for the White House than Mrs. Clinton or Mr. Trump. When I pointed out that indeed, Americans did have other candidates to select, her reaction was pure wonder.

“There are other parties?” she gasped. “Really?”

Her naive response sounded sad, but genuine. For this writer, familiarity with political groups of all sorts was something I have worked to develop. But for many, everyday citizens, real knowledge about the process has been lacking. Quiet censorship by media outlets who televise scripted debates that are controlled by the major parties does not aid in educating the masses.

While some fear Russian involvement in the recent election, few seem to realize that our ‘duopoly’ of red and blue barely surpasses the tight-reigned governance of their distant model.

The United States is controlled by a system based on ‘fast food’ logic of the 1960’s. McDonald’s or Burger King. Two options that are the same, yet different. But not really different. Want a quick submarine sandwich? Maybe a speedy taco? Or a chicken creation? Many nations in the civilized world offer such choices in their versions of the democratic model. But here at home, we believe in something more akin to the old Soviet system. One-party rule, plus one.

You may have a burger. Or if you like, a burger!

In terms of media coverage, the Libertarian Party barely exists between national elections. Only when there is a contest for the White House, and the result of big-money control seems briefly in doubt, do most media outlets mention its existence. Democrats and Republicans chide those who dare to think of alternative choices at the voting booth. Each side, right and left alike, are certain that the LP has no power other than to help their opponents win elections. The major parties fight ballot access for anyone outside of their circle. Why? Controlled lives matter.

The red and yellow clown, or the smiling king. Choose wisely, dear friends!

Libertarians are suspected of wearing tinfoil hats. Of dancing to the music of tone-deaf, experimental composers. Of taking notes during every Alex Jones broadcast. Of longing for a nation without dependable roads and bridges, or the U. S. Postal Service. Of worshiping in secret, offering praise to the saints of obscure religious sects. Of home-schooling children with the intent to build a citizen militia capable of wreaking havoc. Of believing in and spreading rumors on social media.

Of choosing a mixed-up, political salad over a simple burger.

The election of 2016 offered compelling evidence that our two-party system does not serve any useful purpose. It was an example of the need for change like no other. Yet most Americans simply turned left or right in the predictable paths of yesteryear. Once again, after complaining about the ‘status quo’ voters endorsed the very habits they claimed to despise.

Presidential candidate Gary Johnson did not help the cause, by displaying a lack of foreign-policy knowledge that would embarrass a child in grade school. Media pundits, already entrenched in promoting business as usual, pounced on his gaffes.

We were all poorer as a result.

The recent election of Donald Trump stood decorum on its head. But his chaotic term may actually be productive, going forward. The ‘Cheeto in Chief’ has helped to highlight the divided nature of not only the nation, but also of Republican politics. While extremists seem willing to endorse nearly anyone in their quest to control the party, and win elections, those who consider issues with more care have been moved to ponder a vigorous third group. One without the scent of cultural fascism. One with a more Libertarian outlook.

In domestic politics, money matters. The ability to raise funds and dependably turn out voters is a skill possessed by both the Democrats and their rivals in the GOP. A centrist effort borrowing some of that talent could finally offer citizens a real choice on Election Day.

Something besides the same old burger, topped with different condiments.

Comments or questions about ‘Words on the Loose’ may be sent to: icewritesforyou@gmail.com

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Published weekly in the Geauga Independent