We didn’t have modern washing machines back in the 1700s, obviously. But that doesn’t mean we didn’t have dirty politicians and crooks who tried to hijack our government every chance they got. Sadly, moneyed interests and men of influence were around during Revolutionary War times, too. Despite their interference, and all the compromises necessary to create a new country, we did luckily manage to forge a Constitution that so far has stood the test of time, providing a strong foundation for a nation based on the rule of law.
Now, however, our democracy faces one of its biggest challenges yet. The present regime in Washington has proven just how vulnerable our country can actually be, especially when it comes to attacks from within. With corrupt cronyism, dictatorial excesses, rampant profiteering, disregard for human suffering, and flagrant disregard for constitutional liberties at every turn, we are constantly being reminded that in order for a republic to succeed, we need to work extremely hard at maintaining it, every single day of our lives.
Returning to the subject of washing machines — even a time traveler like myself is capable of picking up on modern-day nuances of language. So when people say “we’ve really been taken to the cleaners” by the current leadership in Washington, I can fully understand the disbelief, the frustration, and the vehement anger being expressed by ordinary citizens of this country over the state of affairs in Congress and the White House.
If I may use another laundry metaphor to make my point, I would like to remind you, my dear readers, that there is one proven way to remove the stain from the fabric of our democracy — and that is, simply, to engage in the process of voting. When you cast your ballot in November, you not only have the ability to remove all the scoundrels and criminals from office, you also grant our true, authentic, trustworthy leaders the consensus to improve our laws so that abuses of power like this will never happen again.
So, to sum up, let me remind you that your voice really matters. On this upcoming Election Day, vote as if your life depends on it. For this time, it truly does, in more ways than one.
Your humble servant,
B.Franklin
PS: Please also check out the above video, which captures the essence of my message in only 13 short seconds. Hmmm — how ironic it is, that this 13-second spot is a symbolic connection to our original thirteen colonies! If you'd like to watch this video yourself on Youtube, go to this link: https://youtu.be/CDVL4hFe2KM