Staff Reports
Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) has stepped up to criticize his own party for the inflammatory rhetoric that has been swirling around, especially in the wake of the attempted assassination of former President Trump. Golden, a Democrat who was early to call for Biden to bow out of the reelection race, took to Twitter to urge his colleagues to dial down the dangerous hyperbole.
In a series of tweets, Golden highlighted the need to move away from portraying the election as a battle between extremes such as democracy and authoritarianism or fascism and socialism. He warned against the propagation of what he termed as “dangerous lies” that only serve to stoke tensions and incite violence.
Golden’s critique hit the bullseye when he emphasized how the intense political climate has led to the demonization of political opponents, turning them into enemies to be annihilated. He underscored the importance of recognizing differing perspectives as contributions to the national discourse rather than branding them as existential threats.
Democratic Rep. Jared Golden on the Trump shooting: "This election should not be misleadingly portrayed as a no-holds-barred struggle between democracy or authoritarianism." pic.twitter.com/MbxtFA0GSo
— Andrew Solender (@AndrewSolender) July 14, 2024
While acknowledging that Trump can be bombastic, Golden contrasted him with Democratic leaders like Biden, Schumer, and Pelosi, who have been quick to label their adversaries as enemies of democracy. He called out the media’s complicity in amplifying this divisive narrative, culminating in a toxic environment where violence becomes an acceptable means to an end.
Amidst the turmoil, Golden’s willingness to speak out against the trend towards violent rhetoric within his own party is commendable. His candid assessment serves as a rare beacon of honesty in a political landscape marred by vitriol and polarization. It’s a shame that more Democrats don’t possess the same courage to challenge the status quo and uphold a more civil discourse.
Bob Hoge, a RedState contributor and proud father, lauds Golden for his bold stance against his party’s dangerous flirtation with violent rhetoric. Hoge, known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary, underscores the importance of acknowledging dissenting voices and fostering a spirit of respectful debate in a nation fraught with political tension.
