Where we stand
Our Compass
Most of us have had the privilege of conceiving of politics as the battle between Left and Right. But, it’s also the battle between a natural tendency toward authoritarianism and the American system of liberal democracy.
Unite & Renew is part of a movement to preserve our system of democracy– to keep us from falling down the ‘Y-axis’ towards authoritarianism.
Our True North Principles
U.S. Democracy is non-negotiable
For all its faults, the system of rules-based democratic self-government has created more freedom and human flourishing than any other in history. We adamantly oppose those forces, left or right, that would sell it out and see it replaced with de facto authoritarianism to get their way.
The pillars and norms of American Constitutional order come first
Our highest priority is the preservation and strengthening of our constitutional system, and our policy preferences or tribal affiliations come second. We therefore work for a country whose leaders in both parties are faithful to the foundational principles of liberal democracy, without which no prior democracy has stood for long. These include:
- Inviolability of the Constitutional order—including separation and balance of powers between branches of government, and honoring the results of free and fair elections;
- Strengthening and building popular support for democratic institutions—including justice, intelligence, the military, and nonpartisan election administration—and ensuring their independence from any one U.S. party or leader, and any foreign power;
- Categorical, explicit rejection of violence as the means to political power; and
- Respect for a free, independent and truth-based press as essential to democracy.
E Pluribus Unum
We reject any form of politics, left or right, that sees some U.S. citizens as “real” Americans, and other citizens as second-class or even usurpers, who are less worthy of political rights and full representation because of their race, faith or non-faith, sexuality, gender, party affiliation, or country of origin. That way lies ruin.
Post-truth is pre-authoritarianism
We reject those, of the right or left, who show contempt for evidence, facts, and good faith debate, instead seeking to win power by just “controlling the story” by any means necessary. Liberal democracy does not survive without shared truths.
Duty
Every citizen in a democracy has a duty to contribute to it—especially those of us who have reaped the most fruits from our democratic and free market system.
Realism, not cynicism
Cynics could not have invented modern democracy, and they can’t reinvent it. The Founders were relentlessly clear-eyed about risk and evil, while also being optimistic, idealistic, and brave. Rejecting the cynicism that is rampant on the left and right today, with humility and resolve, we try to follow in the founders’ footsteps.
It’s Time to Unite and Renew Our Democracy
Join us if you’re ready to come together — across party lines — to help protect and renew American democracy.