James Wernicke – Wernicke.com

The Consent Of The Governed

The phrase ‘the consent of the governed’ has long been a pivotal concept in discussions on government legitimacy and citizens’ rights. Its roots can be traced back to the political theory of English philosopher John Locke, who first articulated this idea in his 1689 work ‘Two Treatises of Government’. Locke’s argument was that legitimate political authority is derived from the consent of the governed, a social contract which entrusts rulers with power on the condition that they protect the natural rights of life, liberty, and property. If rulers fail to uphold their end of the social contract, citizens have the right to withdraw their consent and, if necessary, replace the government.

This concept gained further prominence during the Enlightenment era and played a significant role in the American Revolution and the drafting of the United States Declaration of Independence. In the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson famously writes, “Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” This assertion reflects the influence of Locke’s ideas and encapsulates the principle that the government’s legitimacy depends on the approval and participation of the people it governs.

The cornerstone principle of democracy is that governments are instituted with the consent of the governed, implying that the power they wield is delegated by the citizens themselves. However, for this consent to be meaningful, it must be informed and freely given. This is where the power of the electorate comes into play. Our duty extends beyond merely casting a ballot to actively engaging with the issues and candidates at hand. This active participation is what empowers us and shapes the government to reflect our values and aspirations.

While the consent of the governed underscores the importance of an engaged electorate, our current electoral system often falls short of facilitating this ideal. One potential reform that could enhance the democratic process is ranked choice voting (RCV). RCV offers greater voter choice, encourages candidates to appeal to a broader spectrum of voters, and reduces the likelihood of divisive, winner-takes-all outcomes. Another crucial reform is lowering barriers to ballot access for candidates from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations. By doing so, we can foster a more robust marketplace of ideas and ensure that voters have a wider array of candidates to choose from, reflecting the diversity of our society and strengthening our democracy.

As we exercise our right to vote, let’s also consider the potential of reforms to strengthen our democracy. The phrase ‘the consent of the governed’ is a reminder of our duty to be informed and engaged participants in the democratic process. By implementing reforms such as ranked choice voting and lowering barriers to ballot access, we can unlock the full potential of our democracy. These reforms hold the promise to empower voters, enhance political competition, and build a more vibrant and responsive democracy. As you head to the polls today, remember that your vote is not only a declaration of consent but also a call for a more equitable and inclusive electoral process. It’s a step towards a brighter, more democratic future.

An Alternative To Raising Minimum Wage

One of the potential drawbacks to raising the minimum wage is that businesses often pass on the increased labor costs to customers. While the intent is to help low-income workers, the reality is that only certain prices, particularly those tied to minimum wage labor, tend to rise. This can result in significant increases in the costs of essential goods and services like milk and housing construction, as we witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, luxury goods remain unaffected. In essence, raising the minimum wage can inadvertently lead to a disproportionate rise in the cost of living for the very population it aims to assist. Additionally, it can put additional strain on businesses, forcing some to close, relocate, or resort to paying employees “under the table.” These outcomes can ultimately reduce tax revenues that could otherwise support essential social services.

In light of these challenges, an alternative approach worth exploring is the concept of a Citizen’s Dividend. This innovative strategy involves providing a no-strings-attached cash refund to every citizen and their dependents. Some cities, such as Austin and Denver, have already experimented with this approach, and the results have been promising, particularly in reducing housing and food insecurity among their residents. A Citizen’s Dividend can be financed by reallocating funds from unnecessary expenditures or through a more equitable taxation system.

It is essential that we prioritize the goal of fostering a thriving local economy. To achieve this, we should consider alternative solutions like the Citizen’s Dividend, which can help address the financial struggles of our citizens without inadvertently raising the cost of living or burdening businesses. Let’s adopt a forward-thinking approach that truly benefits our community.

Disposable Bag Bans

Once upon a time, I bought some reusable resealable bags for backpacking because somebody shamed me for using disposable bags. The extra plastic made them stiff and bulky — less than ideal for backpacking. Then, I lost one and realized that was probably 10 years’ worth of disposable backpacking bags. So now they stay in the kitchen and I just reuse disposable bags. Same with disposable water bottles.

Two articles were recently published less than a day apart. The first said bag bans work. The second said they don’t. I think policies like plastic bag bans are doomed to fail if they rely on changing to reusable bags. If you can find a way to reuse what already exists, then great, but forcing people to buy thicker plastic bags because they forgot/choose not to use their own seems like anti-policy. (Unless the purpose is to create a reusable bag profit stream for big retailers.)

Maybe the better solution would be to invest in local food production and get rid of supermarkets…

Urge Los Alamos County To Use Concrete Instead Of Metal In White Rock Skatepark Rebuild

Please sign our petition to rebuild the White Rock skatepark out of of concrete instead of metal at https://change.org/WRskatepark.

I grew up skating, and it was not always an easy journey. Before skateparks were around, we were treated like criminals for skating at schools, businesses, and parking lots. As a teenager in Albuquerque, I was fortunate enough to be included in skatepark construction projects which gave me a sense of empowerment and pride in my community. Now, I want the same for the skaters of White Rock.

We are petitioning Los Alamos County to request that the new White Rock skatepark be built out of concrete instead of metal ramps for many reasons:

Lower overall cost and maintenance

While the initial cost of constructing a concrete skatepark might be higher, its long-term maintenance costs are generally lower compared to metal ramps. Concrete is extremely durable and can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions. Metal can corrode, dent, and require more frequent repairs or replacements.

Safety

Concrete parks can be designed with safety in mind, minimizing sharp edges or protrusions that are more common with metal ramps. Also, concrete does not heat up as much as metal, reducing the risk of burns in hot weather.

Noise reduction

Concrete parks are typically quieter than metal ones, reducing noise pollution for nearby residents.

More enjoyable

Concrete provides a smooth, consistent surface that is ideal for skating. It offers good traction and a predictable surface for skaters, which is crucial for performing tricks and maneuvers. Concrete allows for more creative and customized park designs. It can be molded into various shapes and sizes, fitting the landscape and the specific needs of the skating community. It also tends to blend better with the surroundings, offering aesthetic advantages.

Moreover, we believe that this project should be driven more by local skatepark users and less by county staff. The local skateboarders know best what kind of park they need; their input is crucial for creating a space that will truly serve them well.

By involving young people in the planning process as I once was involved myself back in Albuquerque – we can foster a sense of ownership among them towards their community spaces while also teaching them valuable skills about civic engagement. Let’s give our youth the chance to have their voices heard and create a point of pride for them within our community with a new concrete skatepark.

Please support our community and sign our petition. It would also help if you email Los Alamos County Council at countycouncil@lacnm.us and Parks & Recreation Board at prb@lacnm.us to express your support.

Photo by John McHale. Skater: Erik Leonard

The Dichotomy Of Civility And Politeness

Civility and politeness are concepts that are often considered synonymous in our social discourse, yet they embody distinct qualities and serve different functions in fostering social cohesion and cooperation. This essay aims to delve into the nuances distinguishing politeness from civility, underscoring the importance of recognizing and valuing each in its own right.

The essence of civility lies in its foundation of respect, empathy, tolerance, patience, responsibility, and honesty. These principles are deeply rooted in moral values and authenticity, transcending social status and external appearances. Civility is about genuine engagement and fairness, striving for justice and understanding in interactions. On the other hand, politeness is characterized by tact, conformity, discretion, and orderliness. It often revolves around adhering to prescribed social norms and can, at times, be more superficial, focusing on immediate social harmony rather than addressing deeper issues.

The historical context of King Louis XIV’s reign provides an insightful example of how politeness, in the form of elaborate court etiquette, was used as a means of maintaining power structures. The intricate etiquette at the Palace of Versailles, symbolized by the use of “étiquette” or small cards dictating behavioral norms, effectively engaged the nobility in a system that left little room for dissent or challenge to the king’s authority. This historical anecdote illustrates how politeness can sometimes serve as a tool to uphold existing power dynamics rather than fostering genuine societal harmony.

The words of Martin Luther King Jr., written during his imprisonment for his nonviolent protest against segregation, further illuminate the distinction between civility and politeness. King’s assertion that “True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice” powerfully captures the essence of civility as a force for societal justice and equity, transcending the mere absence of conflict that politeness might achieve.

Moreover, George Orwell’s critique in his 1946 essay, “Politics and the English Language,” highlights how political discourse can manipulate language, using politeness and euphemism to mask untruths and injustices. This insight emphasizes the need for a community that values civility and authentic discourse, which involves not only recognizing but also courageously confronting and addressing deeper societal issues.

In the context of Los Alamos, a community endowed with rich economic, intellectual, and environmental resources, there lies a profound potential to exemplify how a society can thrive on the principles of civility. By embracing and nurturing civility, we can demonstrate how to constructively address and resolve issues related to essentials such as food, housing, healthcare, education, energy, and transportation. It is through the lens of civility, rather than mere politeness, that we can effectively work towards a community that is not only harmonious but also just and equitable.

Setting The Right Example For Unity Day

Unity Day in Los Alamos Public Schools is meant to foster awareness about the damaging effects of bullying and discrimination. It is a day when our community should be coming together to teach our children valuable lessons about tolerance, empathy, and understanding. As responsible adults, we cannot ignore the tumultuous events unfolding on the global, national, and local stages, and how our actions set a precedent for the next generation.

The ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine are reminders of the devastating consequences of division. The cycle of violence seems never-ending, with innocent civilians on both sides paying the price for the actions of a few. As adults, we must emphasize the importance of peaceful negotiations and dialogue, rather than engaging in cycles of vengeance. It’s crucial that we teach our children to seek peaceful resolutions and take time to understand the complex issues at play, rather than perpetuating hostilities through inflammatory rhetoric.

Closer to home, the divisive nature of national politics is on full display. Congress’s inability to pass a budget resolution showcases the gridlock that occurs when ideological differences take precedence over the needs of the nation. It is essential that we convey to our children the importance of compromise, constructive dialogue, and putting the greater good ahead of political agendas.

Even at the local level in Los Alamos, we see the mismanagement of issues like diversity and inclusion. When these topics are weaponized for political gain, it only serves to deepen the divides in our community. Instead of seeking to understand each other’s perspectives and working toward a truly inclusive society, we often find ourselves in opposition. This example is not the one we should be setting for our children on Unity Day.

Let’s remember that our actions speak louder than words. We must lead by example, teaching our children the values of empathy, tolerance, and open-mindedness. We should encourage them to engage in respectful discussions, to listen actively to different viewpoints, and to seek common ground. As adults in Los Alamos, we have the responsibility to demonstrate that conflicts can be resolved through diplomacy, that political differences can be bridged through compromise, and that unity can be achieved through understanding and empathy. Let’s set a positive example for our children on Unity Day – and every day that follows – so they can inherit a world where cooperation triumphs over division.

Respond To The Underutilized Amenities Surveys By Friday Oct 13

The Orange St playlot is a community gathering space for all ages and species.

The Los Alamos County Community Services Department (CSD) has published surveys that close Friday October 13 on underutilized amenities: two tennis courts (Nina Marsh & Canyon Rd), one handball wall (Canyon Rd), and two playlots (Orange St & Loma Linda). From the way these surveys are presented — using biased and subjective verbiage like “underutilized” and “difficult to access” — it appears like CSD has already come to a conclusion before even gathering public opinion. How then has CSD decided these amenities are underutilized?

According to the 2023 NRPA Agency Performance Review, they reason that we have an excess of 11 courts and 14 playgrounds. Presumably, they are using data from Figure 3 in the report, which shows communities of less than 20,000 have 2,014 and 5,860 median residents per playground and tennis court respectively. While this data may support their argument, it seems to be cherry-picked. There are many other data points in the report that may contradict it.

Figure 10 shows communities of less than 20,000 have median 11.3 FTEs. According to the Los Alamos County FY24 Budget, we have 19. Figure 14 shows communities of less than 20,000 have median expenditures of $120 per capita (we spend $325), $7,495 per acre (we spend $400), and $102,135 per FTE (we spend over $250k). Nationally, 55% of expenditures are on personnel and we spend 64%. This data leads me to believe that our community invests more than average on recreation while realizing far more efficient spending per acre. In other words, our cost-benefit on these kind of amenities is really, really good.

Some other national cost figures in that report are 38% of budgets are operating expenses, funding sources are 61% taxes and 22% user fees, revenues are 25.9% of expenditures, 55% is spent on renovation and 31% on new development, deferred maintenance projects have a median value of $117,500.80% of agencies have an expressed DEI commitment. One key omission in this report — and a valid concern of our amenities — is amenity accessibility. These statistics can be helpful in planning our own goals, but as one of the most privileged communities in the nation, we should be leading the nation in community recreation quality, not just comparing ourselves to the average. We should also not use population as the sole comparator. As every Los Alamosian knows, we are not a normal population.

If you care about this issue, please fill out the surveys for the corresponding playgrounds and tennis courts by Friday, October 13. Believe it or not, citizen feedback is one of the most impactful ways to play a role in your community. As a Parks & Recreation board member, your feedback is invaluable for me to advocate for this community and inspires me to keep doing it. I’m sure the other boards and commissions would agree. You get from the community what you put into it.

Examining Bias in the Los Alamos Climate Action Plan Survey

The Los Alamos County Climate Action Plan Survey aims to gather valuable information on community perspectives regarding climate change and climate action policies. While the survey has commendable goals in addressing environmental concerns, it is essential to critically analyze its potential biases and the omission of certain perspectives. One notable bias is the survey’s emphasis on the negative impacts of climate change on our community without adequately considering the negative impacts of the proposed policies on disadvantaged members of the community.

The survey’s questions assume a high level of concern regarding climate change impacts, creating an atmosphere that may lead respondents to overstate their worries. For instance, respondents are asked to rate their concern about climate change impacts, from extreme temperatures to wildfires. The survey’s options range from “Not at all concerned” to “Extremely concerned,” which implicitly assumes that these impacts are universally and equally alarming. Similarly, it implicitly assumes all proposed climate action policies are good for the community.

One glaring omission in the survey is the lack of questions addressing the potential economic and social burdens of climate action policies on marginalized and lower-income communities. Climate action policies, while well-intentioned, can inadvertently lead to increased costs for essentials like energy, transportation, and housing. The survey fails to consider the potential hardships policies like energy transition and regulatory measures might impose on those already experiencing energy insecurity. For instance, transitioning to clean energy sources often requires significant initial investments, which could be unaffordable for low-income households. Bicycling and walking are often inaccessible forms of transportation to those with physical impairments. Additionally, regulations that drive up the cost of goods and services can place additional financial stress on individuals and families with limited resources.

A more balanced and inclusive survey should recognize and address these potential consequences. It should ask respondents about their awareness of the potential economic and social impacts of climate policies and whether they believe these impacts are adequately considered in the proposed actions. Moreover, it should seek to understand how respondents perceive the balance between climate action and economic equity.

The Los Alamos County Climate Action Plan Survey is a valuable tool for collecting community input on climate change. However, it falls short of providing a comprehensive understanding of the problem with potential biases in its framing of climate change impacts and the lack of consideration for the potential negative effects of its proposed actions. A more balanced and inclusive survey would better serve the community by acknowledging and addressing these concerns, ensuring climate action policies benefit all residents, including the economically vulnerable.

The survey is open until 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18 and takes approximately 13 minutes to complete. Please complete the survey and consider the following ideas before responding to the open-ended questions:

What other benefits can be realized from taking action on climate change in Los Alamos?

Responsible and inclusive policies create a supportive framework that encourages private sector participation in sustainability efforts without imposing mandates or increasing public spending. By providing incentives, recognition, and access to resources, governments can foster a culture of voluntary sustainability within the business community.

Offer tax credits or deductions to businesses that adopt sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy installations, or sustainable supply chain management. These incentives can reduce tax liabilities, making sustainable investments more attractive.
Promote a certification program or labeling system that recognizes environmentally friendly businesses. This can help businesses enhance their reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
Implement market-based instruments like cap-and-trade systems or pollution pricing mechanisms. These mechanisms create financial incentives for businesses to reduce emissions voluntarily and explore cleaner technologies.
Prioritize purchasing of products and services from businesses with strong sustainability practices. This approach creates a market demand for sustainable goods and encourages businesses to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
Offer training and education programs to businesses on sustainable practices, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable supply chain management. Enhanced knowledge can lead to voluntary adoption of these practices.
Establish awards or recognition programs that celebrate businesses that excel in sustainability. Publicly acknowledging and rewarding sustainable efforts can motivate other companies to follow suit.
Encourage businesses to conduct environmental impact assessments as part of their operations. This can help identify opportunities for sustainability improvements and reduce resource waste.
Facilitate access to sustainable financing options for businesses interested in adopting sustainable practices. Specialized green financing can support sustainable projects without increasing public spending.
Promote energy efficiency programs for businesses that include audits, recommendations, and access to financing for energy-efficient upgrades. This can reduce energy costs and encourage sustainable practices.
Encourage businesses to adopt sustainable supply chain practices by highlighting the benefits of responsible sourcing, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impacts.

What would a sustainable and resilient Los Alamos look like?

A sustainable and resilient Los Alamos that prioritizes marginalized populations, enforces government accountability and encourages private sector participation can be achieved through a combination of proactive policies, community engagement, and partnerships. It doesn’t necessarily require increased public spending but rather thoughtful resource allocation, public-private collaboration, and a commitment to social and environmental justice.

Sustainable and resilient policies ensure that marginalized populations have equitable access to essential resources such as clean water, affordable housing, and public transportation. This involves zoning regulations that promote affordable housing development and inclusive public transportation options.
A resilient Los Alamos values community engagement and actively seeks input from marginalized populations in policy-making processes. Local government regularly hosts community meetings and establishes advisory boards to ensure diverse voices are heard.
The community prioritizes clean energy adoption, with policies that encourage private sector investment in renewable energy projects. Incentives and tax breaks are offered to businesses that invest in clean energy technologies, ultimately reducing the community’s carbon footprint without increased public spending.
Sustainable and resilient policies support local food systems, with an emphasis on urban farming and community gardens. Local government collaborates with private businesses to provide resources and support for food production, increasing food security for all residents.
The community invests in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as fire control measures and green spaces designed to mitigate extreme weather events. These projects are financed through public-private partnerships and grants rather than increased public spending.
Policies encourage private sector participation in sustainability efforts without imposing burdensome regulations. Voluntary sustainability certification programs are established to recognize businesses that adopt sustainable practices, enhancing their market competitiveness.
Local government operates with a strong commitment to accountability and transparency. Regular audits and reporting mechanisms are in place to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and fairly.
Sustainable and resilient communities prioritize educational opportunities for marginalized populations. Policies support affordable access to quality education and vocational training, creating pathways to economic stability.
Access to healthcare services is considered a fundamental right. Policies ensure that healthcare facilities are accessible to all residents, including marginalized populations, without increasing public spending.
Robust social safety nets are in place to provide assistance to those in need. These programs, funded through responsible budget allocation and grants, protect marginalized populations from increased hardships during economic downturns or emergencies, but not as a persistent life support system.
Policies promote local economic development and entrepreneurship, supporting businesses owned by marginalized individuals. Financial incentives and training programs are offered to encourage the growth of small businesses.
The community places a strong emphasis on protecting natural resources, with policies that promote responsible land use and conservation efforts. This preserves the environment for future generations while creating opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable industries.

What do you see as significant BARRIERS or CHALLENGES to implementing these strategies?

Ensuring that climate action strategies benefit all residents and do not exacerbate existing social inequalities is essential. Failure to address equity concerns can lead to opposition and resistance from marginalized communities.
Implementing many climate action strategies, such as transitioning to clean energy sources or improving energy efficiency, may require significant upfront investments. Identifying and securing funding sources, especially in a resource-constrained environment, can be a challenge.
Changing established behaviors and practices can be met with resistance from individuals, businesses, and organizations. Encouraging people to adopt sustainable practices, like using public transportation or reducing waste, may face pushback.
Low awareness or understanding of climate change issues and solutions can hinder action. Effective educational campaigns are needed to inform the community about the impacts of climate change and the benefits of mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Upgrading infrastructure to support clean energy, alternative transportation, and resilient buildings can be technically challenging and costly. Adapting existing infrastructure or building new facilities can take time and resources.
Existing regulations and legal frameworks may not be conducive to climate action. Overcoming regulatory hurdles and obtaining necessary permits for renewable energy projects or green building standards can be time-consuming.
The county may have limited resources, both in terms of finances and personnel, to dedicate to climate action initiatives. Competing priorities can make it difficult to allocate sufficient resources to climate projects.
Ensuring broad community engagement and buy-in for climate action strategies can be challenging. Engaging diverse stakeholders and addressing their concerns and needs is essential for successful implementation.
Political opposition or changes in leadership can impact the continuity and support for climate action initiatives. Achieving political consensus on climate policies may be challenging.
Implementing climate strategies may require technical expertise and specialized knowledge. The county may need to invest in training or hire experts in various fields, which can be resource-intensive.
Concerns about potential economic impacts, such as job losses in certain sectors or increased costs for businesses, can be a barrier to climate action. Balancing economic growth with sustainability is a complex challenge.
Establishing robust data collection and monitoring systems to track progress and assess the effectiveness of strategies can be challenging. Lack of data or inconsistent data can hinder decision-making.
Effective coordination among different government agencies, departments, and jurisdictions may be necessary for comprehensive climate action. Overcoming bureaucratic barriers and fostering collaboration can be a challenge.

Addressing these barriers and challenges requires a well-coordinated and adaptive approach, with a focus on community engagement, education, and innovative solutions. It also underscores the importance of flexibility in the implementation of climate action strategies to adapt to changing circumstances and overcome obstacles as they arise.

Are there any key strategies that you think are missing or actions you would like to see included in this plan?

Ensuring that the climate action plan explicitly addresses environmental justice concerns is essential. Policies should be designed to reduce disparities in vulnerability and impacts among different socioeconomic groups.
Developing a comprehensive climate resilience plan that identifies specific vulnerabilities and strategies to address them, including infrastructure resilience and emergency response, can enhance community preparedness for climate impacts.
Collaborating with and respecting the knowledge of Indigenous communities in climate action planning can lead to more culturally sensitive and effective strategies, particularly in preserving natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
Exploring innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds, revolving loan funds, or public-private partnerships can help fund sustainability initiatives without a heavy reliance on public budgets.
Implementing behavioral change campaigns that promote sustainable practices among residents and businesses can be an effective way to achieve emission reductions.
Establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress, assess the impact of policies, and make necessary adjustments is crucial for the long-term success of the climate action plan.
Promoting local and sustainable food systems can reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and transportation. Encouraging community gardens, urban farming, and supporting local farmers’ markets can help achieve this goal.
In addition to proposed waste reduction strategies, encourage packaging reduction and product durability and repairability.
While improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings is crucial, incentivizing sustainable building practices and materials for new construction can have a long-lasting impact on reducing energy consumption and emissions.
In addition to protecting green spaces and natural ecosystems, actively restoring degraded ecosystems can help sequester carbon, enhance biodiversity, and improve the overall resilience of the environment.
Expanding green procurement policies to cover all levels of government can encourage the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly products and services. This can also stimulate demand for sustainable goods and services in the private sector.

Including these additional strategies can strengthen the climate action plan for Los Alamos and make it even more comprehensive and effective in addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.

Concerns over Governor’s Decree on Firearms in Public

Sign our petition at https://chng.it/ZDngpGDVNH.

There are no words that can capture the depth of sorrow and pain that comes with the loss of a loved one, especially from violence. Thoughts and prayers mean little without action, and we have no greater responsibility than to protect the life and liberty of those we cherish. To that end, the Libertarian Party of Los Alamos expresses concerns about the recent Public Health Order by the Governor suspending the rights of our fellow citizens to carry firearms in public. This decision, while perhaps rooted in a desire to ensure public safety, runs counter to the principles of personal freedom and responsibility, to the Constitution itself, the rule of law, and puts the life and liberty of our loved ones at greater risk.

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution explicitly states that “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” This fundamental right was instituted as a safeguard against potential tyranny and to ensure that citizens can defend themselves and their loved ones. The Governor’s decree nullifies this basic right and sets an alarming precedent for future encroachments on other rights. Fundamental rights are not subject to nullification or suspension, period.

Counterintuitively, suspending the rights of law-abiding citizens to carry firearms in public could lead to an increase, rather than a decrease, in gun violence. Criminals, by definition, do not adhere to the law and will continue to carry firearms illegally. A fact that the Governor herself acknowledged during her press conference. Disarming responsible citizens makes them more vulnerable targets, as potential offenders are deterred by the knowledge that their would-be victims may be armed, leading to a potential rise in crime rates. Furthermore, FBI and Census Bureau data show that gun ownership is not correlated to gun violence crime. Holders of Concealed Handgun License (CHL) have violent crime rates 7 times less than even police officers.

Any governmental decision that curtails fundamental rights, even temporarily, poses a serious risk. Today, it’s the right to bear arms; tomorrow, it could be freedom of speech, assembly, or any of our other cherished liberties. Each incremental limitation chips away at the foundation of our democracy, and we should vigorously resist any attempt to suspend the Constitution by decree.

The intent behind ensuring safety and security for the public is commendable, but issuing illegal orders stripping citizens of their constitutional and natural rights is the approach of tin-pot dictators, not statesmen. We urge the Governor and other stakeholders to rescind this decree and engage in a constructive dialogue with all affected parties. Let us work together to find solutions that honor our constitutional rights while addressing the legitimate concerns of public safety.

Sign our petition at https://chng.it/ZDngpGDVNH.

Sincerely,

Laura Burrows, Chair
James Wernicke, Vice Chair
Lee Weinland, Secretary
Libertarian Party of Los Alamos

American Interventionism: Exploiting Democracy for Power and Profit

When we speak of American democracy, ideals like freedom, human rights, and justice often come to mind. The United States is viewed as a beacon of hope and a champion of these values. However, the country’s track record is more mixed on the international front. While the U.S. has played a pivotal role in promoting democratic values in some instances, there is a darker side to its foreign interventions. Historically, there have been numerous occasions where the banner of democracy is co-opted to further ulterior motives. Often, these motives are tied to political gains and financial benefits, predominantly for politicians and the military-industrial complex.

Throughout the Cold War, the U.S. often justified interventions by citing the spread of communism as a threat to democracy. For instance, the American intervention in Vietnam was framed as a necessary step to prevent the domino effect of communism across Asia. However, when looking beneath the surface, significant economic and strategic interests were at play, ranging from access to resources to geopolitical dominance. Such veiling wasn’t exclusive to the Cold War. The 2003 invasion of Iraq was conducted under the pretext of eradicating Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) and instilling democracy. However, no WMDs were found, and Iraq plunged into a sectarian civil war that led to the rise of ISIS. Instead of a stable democracy, the country became a battleground, with countless lives lost and infrastructure destroyed.

The people of the countries where these wars are waged bear the most tragic cost of such interventions. They often face a future filled with instability, civil strife, economic despair, and loss of life. After the U.S.-led NATO intervention in 2011, Libya has not found stability and has become a hotspot for terrorism and human trafficking. Furthermore, the message sent globally is that democracy is not a genuine aspiration but a tool of convenience, diluting the earnest efforts of many who wish to promote democratic values and human rights worldwide.

While the local populations in intervened countries often bear the brunt of the conflict, other groups benefit immensely. Politicians can consolidate power by playing on nationalistic sentiments, diverting attention from domestic issues, and portraying themselves as defenders of American values. Moreover, the military-industrial complex, comprising defense contractors, lobbyists, and some military officials, thrives during conflicts. Wars mean contracts, sales, and profits. For example, the defense industry saw a sharp spike in earnings after the Iraq invasion and again today as the Ukraine conflict rages on. The interests of this complex often align with prolonged conflicts, not swift resolutions.

The U.S. can promote peace and democracy globally, but it is vital to examine the motives behind every intervention critically. It’s essential to distinguish between genuine efforts to uphold democratic values and instances where these ideals are exploited for political and financial gains. To ensure peacekeeping remains at the forefront, we must eliminate the revolving door between government and defense and increase transparency and accountability of the defense industry through mechanisms such as stricter controls on lobbying, public disclosure of defense contracts, more regular oversight hearings by Congress, and the promotion of whistleblower protections. Furthermore, fostering a culture of open dialogue between policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public will pave the way for more informed decisions. To those of you who play influential roles in this arena, I implore you to find the courage to champion such measures so that the U.S. may honor the memory of those lost on 9/11 by showing democracy as a path to a more peaceful and prosperous world.