By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The current political climate resembles a circus, and resisting the Trump administration can inadvertently become part of it. To counter this, a new form of political theatre is proposed, drawing inspiration from historical resistance movements. This involves blue states creating an invitation-only, embryonic constitutional convention to draft an interstate compact outlining rights, obligations, and funding. The compact would address Trump-era abuses, including crucial social programs and acknowledging the dangers of AI and climate change. Ultimately, the author hopes this initiative would shift focus away from the Trump presidency, potentially inspiring other states to join, and encouraging ordinary citizens to become politically involved.
Read the original article here
Blue states should come together to declare an emergency. Here’s how. The situation is dire, and the path forward is filled with uncertainties, but it is becoming increasingly clear that the status quo is unsustainable. We are witnessing a sustained assault on democratic norms, civil liberties, and the very fabric of our society. In this climate, blue states need to consider a bold move: collectively declaring a state of emergency. But how do we do this effectively, and what does it even mean?
The first step involves recognizing the scope of the threat. The actions of certain factions within the federal government, and the Supreme Court, are eroding the foundations of our republic. We need to acknowledge abuses of power, and acts of cruelty. This isn’t hyperbole; it is a stark reality that demands a strong response. A collective declaration of emergency allows us to define these abuses in the context of state law, giving us the power to counteract them.
The proposed solution involves utilizing state power to obstruct federal overreach. For example, we could enact state laws that effectively criminalize activities undertaken by federal agencies, such as ICE, that violate state laws or constitutional rights. Following this, we could arrest federal agents who are in violation of state law. This would not be an act of secession, but a strategic measure to protect our citizens and preserve our rights. The purpose is to buy time, to slow down and ultimately, to create an environment where federal overreach becomes untenable.
This isn’t about sparking a civil war; it’s about creating a robust defense. It involves making it more difficult for the federal government to trample on the rights of the citizens. This can be done through creating a coalition of like-minded states that agree on certain core principles. This could take the form of a constitutional convention specifically for these states, a place where we can put forward the blueprint for a new kind of American government in a post-Trump era. It should include a specific list of abuses by the Trump administration, and even the Supreme Court. We must also act like those who signed the Declaration of Independence.
A declaration of emergency can manifest itself in several ways. One potential approach is to declare a state of emergency due to the ongoing erosion of civil liberties, human rights, and the integrity of our democratic institutions. Another is to directly address and mitigate the effects of federal policies that are harmful to citizens. State and local governments can be encouraged to refuse to cooperate with federal enforcement of policies that violate civil rights or other basic principles. This strategy of non-cooperation and resistance is crucial.
Moreover, a concerted economic strategy can be employed. The economic power of blue states is substantial. A coordinated boycott of companies and individuals supporting anti-democratic policies can send a clear message. It’s about exercising economic muscle to demonstrate that there are consequences for these actions.
It’s crucial to realize that declaring an emergency will have to be accompanied by concrete actions. Simply issuing statements isn’t enough. We must be prepared to take decisive steps, such as enacting state laws to counter federal overreach. We need to build mechanisms to protect our citizens from government abuses. The National Guard could be activated to oppose invading forces.
This is not a simple plan, and there are significant challenges to overcome. There are those who will see it as a prelude to secession. We must be prepared to counter this narrative. However, it is essential to take action. Delaying a response will only strengthen those seeking to undermine our democracy.
However, we must be aware that a constitutional convention will play right into the hands of those who wish to dismantle the country as it stands. These are endgame moves. At the very least, blue states must declare that continued violation of rights and corruption will result in a constitutional defense convention.
A key component to ensuring this plan’s success will be an informed public, as many people may not recognize the danger. It’s essential to bring the center into the fold. This may necessitate compromise, but it is essential for a united front. We need to make convincing arguments.
The goal is not to create a new nation but to preserve the one we have. It is not about attacking Republicans or Democrats; it is about defending our constitutional rights. There is no guarantee of success. However, the current trajectory is not sustainable. The time to act is now.
While it may appear as though we are walking a tightrope, this is the moment to act. We must fight against the tide of anti-democratic actions, to ensure the survival of the nation, and the freedoms it has championed.