On July 4, 1776, the United States emerged not only as a nation but as an embodiment of liberalism. This political philosophy emphasizes individual rights, limited government, and the rule of law. Presently, America is said to be experiencing a “democracy crisis,” yet its electoral institutions remain largely intact. The real challenge facing the country is a crisis in liberalism.
Liberalism is not tied to any particular party or platform. It originated from the Enlightenment in the 18th century and is based on natural rights that governments are meant to protect rather than grant or revoke. These principles demand checks on power to ensure individual freedom because, as America’s founders understood, individual rights can be easily compromised by “the superior force of an interested and overbearing majority.”
Democracy in the U.S. was built upon liberal foundations articulated in the Declaration of Independence: “that all men are created equal” with “unalienable Rights” such as “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Even as suffrage expanded, constitutional limits were maintained to safeguard individuals from governmental overreach.
Currently, concerns about American democracy’s health are widespread. Some politicians reject election results when unfavorable; low-turnout contests decide many elections; conspiracy theories target election officials; and January 6 rioters faced limited repercussions for attempting to overturn a lawful election through violence.
The more pressing threat arises from growing disdain for liberal constraints. Former President Donald Trump and his supporters claim his supposed “unprecedented and powerful mandate” justifies actions disregarding courts or laws. Elon Musk questioned why democratic elections matter if “unelected activist ‘judges’ can override the clear will of the people.” When Trump exceeded his authority on tariffs according to the Court of International Trade, he claimed divine mission immunity.
Presidential power does not stem from divine mandates but from constitutional authority designed to constrain arbitrary government actions—even popular ones among large population segments. Republican defenders cite Barack Obama’s quote: “elections have consequences,” yet they also have limits foundational to America’s experiment.
Illiberalism isn’t exclusive to one side; some on the Left view respect for liberal institutions as outdated constraints hindering their agenda. If both parties dismiss checks on power as irrelevant, democracy risks becoming merely a tool against opponents rather than progress means.
As Independence Day approaches, it’s crucial remembering what distinguished America’s revolution: commitment not just breaking monarchy but protecting “unalienable” rights through constitutional governance even against democratic pressures.
