Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin followed Donald Trump’s unprecedented joint congressional address on Tuesday by emphasizing the threats facing democracy. She urged citizens to take an active role in holding elected officials accountable—including herself.
As a first-term Democratic senator representing a state that the president secured, she articulated that the preservation of democracy demands ongoing and active engagement from voters.
“Our democracy, which has been an aspiration for many around the globe, is currently at stake,” Slotkin stated in the official Democratic response. “It’s endangered when the president selectively chooses which rules to follow, when he disregards court orders and the Constitution, or when elected officials passively allow such actions.”
The senator proposed a three-step approach for citizens: staying informed, keeping track of their elected officials’ voting histories, and actively organizing around important issues. She characterized civic oversight as something that is “as American as apple pie.”
Slotkin also addressed Trump’s claims regarding a flourishing economy, clarifying that despite the administration’s assertions of success, “the national debt is increasing, not decreasing.”
Earlier today, the International Chamber of Commerce expressed similar concerns, warning that the hefty tariffs implemented by Trump on Canada and Mexico could potentially lead to a significant economic downturn, catalyzed by a sharp decline in the stock market. Slotkin added that cutting social security and critical programs is not a viable solution to the national debt or enhancing governmental efficiency.
“We need a more efficient government. If you want to eliminate waste, I’ll help you with that. However, change doesn’t have to be chaotic or compromise our safety,” she emphasized.
Citing her experience in national security, Slotkin cautioned that democracies are vulnerable institutions that can easily “flicker out” without persistent, dedicated protection.
after newsletter promotion
“If past generations hadn’t fought for this democracy, where would we find ourselves today?” Slotkin questioned.
