In 1789, George Washington called America “the Great Experiment” because most European countries at that time were ruled by monarchies. Washington and the founders of the United States of America wanted to try a new form of government based on the idea that human beings had the right to determine their own fate.
Thomas Jefferson said, “What is most valuable is the right of self-government. Governments need engaged citizens who are educated, attentive to public affairs, and open to new ideas and diverse opinions. Citizens must intelligently exercise their right to vote. The rational and peaceful instrument of reform is the vote of the people.”
Elections are the way that citizens achieve self-government. In elections, candidates discuss their policy priorities, and voters decide which candidates they want to represent them.
Our elections today are more verifiable and secure than ever before in American history. When candidates refuse to accept the results of elections, they undermine the election process. Respecting the election process and the vote of the people allows the peaceful transfer of power and the perpetuation of America’s “Great Experiment” in self-governing.
— Diane Sallee
Anchorage
Have something on your mind? Send to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Letters under 200 words have the best chance of being published. Writers should disclose any personal or professional connections with the subjects of their letters. Letters are edited for accuracy, clarity and length.