The First Tuesday after the First Monday in November

Every election season, we’re reminded that our votes matter. But American elections are more than just a way to choose leaders—they’re a foundational safeguard for the very idea of democracy itself. The principles underlying our electoral system reflect the core American ideal that “all are created equal.” In a republic like ours, elections serve as the bedrock of our democratic values, helping to keep power accountable, ensuring stability, and giving each citizen a voice. Without these regular opportunities for the people to engage in self-governance, the structure of American government and its protections would erode, leaving democracy itself vulnerable to misuse and decay.

Drawing on insights from the Federalist Papers, written by the Constitution’s architects, we see how our elections reinforce the values they fought to enshrine. American elections uphold the ideals of liberty and equality, providing a counterbalance to power and offering a means to address grievances peacefully. By reflecting on the historical wisdom that guided our founders, we can better appreciate the stakes of each election and our role in preserving this experiment in democracy.

Elections as a Reflection of the People’s Will

In Federalist No. 39, James Madison argued that for a government to be truly republican, it must derive its authority directly or indirectly from the people. This is the core of a government “by the people.” Elections are the embodiment of this principle, ensuring that those who govern do so only with the consent of the governed. The republic model of government contrasts with monarchies or oligarchies by making the people—not the wealthy, powerful, or elite—the source of power. Elections not only shape who holds office but also remind leaders that they are in their roles as representatives, not rulers. The cycle of elections forces each official to return to the people, to listen to their needs, and to seek their approval.

In this way, every election reaffirms our nation’s commitment to self-governance, asserting the right of each citizen to have a voice in shaping the direction of the country. This commitment is rooted in the belief that every American, regardless of background, has a role in the republic (if we can keep it), a principle that stands in stark contrast to other governments where only a select few are empowered.

Elections as a Check on Power and Factionalism

One of the greatest threats to any republic is factionalism, where divisions grow so deep that they threaten the stability of the state. In Federalist No. 9, Alexander Hamilton warned against the dangers of factions, which could lead to internal conflicts or even insurrections. When individuals or groups prioritize their own interests above the nation’s well-being, the result can be devastating for democratic stability. Elections act as a “safety valve” for these pressures by giving people a voice in government without resorting to force. Elections channel frustrations into a peaceful, constructive process, allowing the people to replace officials or redirect policies through the ballot rather than violence.

Our recent history shows the danger of this balance being threatened. The events of January 6th were a stark reminder of what happens when factions attempt to overturn the democratic process.

Our founders understood this risk well and built a system to diffuse it. By preserving and belief in fair, regular elections, we protect the republic from the destructive potential of unchecked factionalism.

Elections as Safeguards for Union & National Stability

In Federalist No. 13 and Federalist No. 41, Hamilton and Madison emphasized the importance of unity in securing peace and stability. A united government, sustained by a fair electoral process, can more effectively govern and protect its people. Disunity, on the other hand, breeds inefficiency, mistrust, and vulnerability. Madison argued that a strong federal government, balanced by the power of elections, ensures that we have a government capable of meeting the nation’s needs while remaining accountable to its citizens.

Through elections, the federal government is continually held to account, reducing the risk of overreach and keeping its powers within limits set by the people. The choice offered to us in each election is a choice to renew our commitment to unity and stability. Every vote we cast in federal elections is a vote to preserve the Union that holds the nation together, ensuring that our government remains strong yet responsive.

The Importance of an Informed Citizenry

The founders understood that an informed and engaged electorate was vital to the success of the republic. In Federalist No. 67, Hamilton tackled the importance of honest information in shaping public opinion. He pushed back against critics who spread misinformation about the President’s powers, warning that misleading the public about the Constitution’s intent could erode faith in the government. Today, the challenge of misinformation is more present than ever. Misleading narratives threaten to distort public understanding of democratic institutions, creating confusion about the Constitution’s limits on power and the purpose of elections.

A well-functioning democracy depends on citizens who are informed about the stakes and understand the real responsibilities of each elected office. The choices we make must be based on reality, not rhetoric. This is why it’s so crucial for voters to critically assess the information they encounter, ask questions, and seek reliable sources. Elections rely not only on participation but on informed participation. In each election, we have a duty to hold candidates accountable for the truth and reject those who would mislead for political gain.

Renewing American Values Through Each Election

In Federalist No. 1, Hamilton introduced a challenge to the people of America: to decide whether societies are capable of establishing good government by “reflection and choice,” or whether we are doomed to “accident and force.” Each election is a renewed opportunity to make that choice, affirming America’s dedication to liberty, equality, and justice. This is what distinguishes the American democratic process. Our right to vote is both a privilege and a responsibility that honors the sacrifices of those who fought to establish this republic. It reflects our role as guardians of the Constitution, as stewards of its principles, and as defenders of its promise for future generations.

As we go to the polls, we are part of a legacy stretching back to the country’s founding. Each election gives us the chance to ensure that our government remains by the people, for the people, and aligned with the values that have sustained it through centuries.