Principles Matter — Freedom
This article is part of our Principled Voter series.
A principled voter asks: Does this candidate value freedom?
“Freedom is never absolute . . . it must always be contained within the framework of other people’s freedom.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
What is freedom? Freedom is a balance between rights and responsibilities that allows each person and our democracy as a whole to flourish. In the United States, we enjoy civil liberties and political rights, and we are responsible to uphold those freedoms for others.
What is at stake? The U.S. stands for freedom, offering citizens the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” and a government that represents and protects us. When our freedoms erode, we lose the opportunity to pursue our personal path, shape the laws that govern us, and thrive as individuals and a nation.
Why does it matter?
- Our government provides us freedom from certain restrictions and freedom to certain rights. For example, we are free from unjust government interference and free to elect our own representatives.
- Freedom of speech, the press, the right to protest, and other rights protect our values and hold leaders accountable to voters.
- Democracies must manage competition over values, rights, liberties, and resources. Balancing these interests while protecting civil liberties is our greatest challenge.
How can I tell if this candidate values freedom?
- They understand that in a complex society, peaceful citizens exercise their rights within a framework of responsibility to their fellow citizens.
- They support the freedoms at the heart of our participatory democracy and do not push us to vote as if only one or two rights matter. Narrowing our rights protects political interests — not citizens.
- They defend civil liberties for all groups — including those they disagree with — not just freedoms for their own group.
No candidate is perfect, but some value freedom more than others.
Patterns can reveal a commitment to principles. How can we determine if a candidate values freedom?
- Do they support checks and balances between the executive, judicial, and legislative branches? Do they lead efforts to resist abuses of power?
- Do they allow people to voice differing opinions rather than attempt to stifle political opponents, journalists, and peaceful protestors?
- Do they uphold legal decisions, democratic processes, and government entities rather than threaten prosecution or harm to those they oppose?
“Who ever walked behind anyone to freedom? If we can’t go hand in hand, I don’t want to go.” — Hazel Scott
Principled voters are “golden rule” voters. They consider whether their vote will harm others, and they use their vote to create a better shared future. Voting for candidates who promote freedom is essential if we want to build the beloved community, where everyone has the opportunity and freedom to thrive.
Principles matter. Hope votes.
