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by: Jeremiah
As we have all watched the events unfold in Egypt over the past several days, I couldn't help but realize how inherently wrong I was in my original assessment of the transition of power in West Virginia. After former Governor Manchin moved to the US Senate, I posted that WV Senate President Tomblin should remain Governor until the 2012 regularly scheduled elections. No bones about it- I was just wrong.
My reasoning was driven by two factors- cost and continuity in governance. On each point, I overstepped in my conclusions because my assumptions were misguided. Concerning cost, as several others pointed out, the value of democracy is not something that should be measured in dollars and cents, for the inherent expression of the people's will through their vote is the linchpin of our entire political structure. Regarding continuity, others have correctly pointed out that the current situation at the Statehouse is as uncertain as any West Virginia has ever faced. The only way to redress the lack of stability is to have an election, not put one off.
The people of Egypt, and people all over the world, fight and die for a right that we often take for granted. Even I have taken this for granted and appreciate venues like WV Blue and other forums that allow for exercises in democratic discussion that give citizens a chance to share and hear the viewpoints of others. I genuinely learn from these exchanges.
Under the assumption that the May 14 compromise for a primary and October 4 general special election date will become law, let's prove our commitment to democracy and to our State by fully exercising democracy. Let's all take heed the lessons from the people of Egypt and remember that democracy cannot be taken for granted. |
