The day democracy died

The Supreme Court with their decision in McCutcheons vs. FEC, to strike down limits on how much one individual can pour into political campaigns, has killed our cherished democracy. An earlier decision in Citizens United, which allowed corporations unlimited campaign expenditures, was the first salvo against democracy and now it will allow the wealthy few to give even more money directly to candidates running for federal office. A government ruled by the wealthy few is not the way democracy was intended to be. Our founding fathers said, “By the people, for the people”; not, by the wealthy for the wealthy.

Now is the time to take back our government from the takeover of the oligarchs (see Russian government) and bring forth a constitutional amendment to overturn the court and reclaim our democracy. And while we are at it, it is time to impeach those on the court, with their rulings, who are subverting our democracy.

This is not a right-left, conservative-liberal issue, this is our democracy that is in danger and affects all of us. It will be interesting to see how the libertarians and conservatives respond to this ruling, those who claim to defend our constitution and rights for all.

Stuart Clift

Lake Stevens

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

Monroe’s Betzy Garcia celebrates scoring a touchdown against Everett during the game on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: School levies, bonds invest in future of students

Several school districts seek the support of voters for levies and bonds in the Feb. 10 election.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Thursday, Jan. 29

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Everett schoola bond, levy ensure quality education

My children attended Jackson Elementary, Evergreen Middle School and Everett High. Back… Continue reading

Everett High students’ walk-out wasn’t a civics lesson

The Everett High School students are protesting once again (“Everett High students… Continue reading

Vote yes for Everett Public Schools bond and levy

Leading up to Feb. 10 voters have the opportunity to approve a… Continue reading

Comment: What’s the endgame for Trump’s blue cities offensive?

Embolden by perceived success, the administration may escalate against protesters, only increasing uncertainty.

Gessen: This is what state terror looks like

A regime based on terror deploys violence to reinforce the message that no one is safe.

People read newspapers from the library selection at the Everett Public Library on Thursday, April 3, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Continue discussion on local journalism support

State lawmakers should reconsider legislation that can aid newspapers and other news sources.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, Jan. 28

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Burke: Recalling heroes of battles past, as the threat rises

Those who defended freedom made the sacrifices required. Are we prepared to protect our democracy?

Lozada: Trump’s fantasy pursuit of ‘hotness’ is killing Americans

For Trump, being ‘hot’ isn’t about poll numbers or a good economy; it’s about constantly holding attention.

Portrayal of federal agents as Nazis offensive

Two things were contrasted in the Everett Herald recently. One was Homeland… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.