Voices Today: Democracy Under Siege and the Cost of Conflict

As we enter the final stretch of the election cycle, the tension between democratic norms and executive overreach has reached a breaking point. Today’s landscape reveals a disturbing trend: from the deployment of military lawyers in civilian courts to the potential activation of secret emergency powers, the guardrails of our republic are being tested like never before.

Simultaneously, the human and environmental costs of current policies are coming into sharper focus. Whether it is the refusal to acknowledge the reality of ongoing conflict or the evolving way we communicate climate catastrophe, the need for transparent, pro-democracy leadership has never been more urgent.

What the columnists are saying today

The Blockbuster Audacity of “Hope”

The New Yorker — Justin Chang reviews Na Hong-jin’s new thriller starring an ensemble cast including Alicia Vikander and Michael Fassbender.

Is Nepal a Turning Point in Climate Coverage?

The New Republic — A look at whether news media is finally shifting how it reports on escalating global climate disasters.

The Shadowy Powers that Trump Could Use to End American Democracy

Thenation.com — Sasha Abramsky explores the dangers of Presidential Emergency Action Documents being used to bypass democratic checks and balances.

A Food-World Star Is Back in the Spotlight. She’s Not Sure Her Fans Will Love Who She’s Become.

Slate Magazine — Carla Lalli Music discusses her new cookbook focused on the personal transition and healing found through cooking for one.

Military Lawyers Prosecuting Civilian Crimes Across the Country

The American Prospect — An investigation into the unprecedented use of Judge Advocates to prosecute local street crimes in American courtrooms.

'I Wouldn't Call It a War,' Says JD Vance After 6 Months of Trump's Failed, Costly, and Illegal War on Iran

Common Dreams — Vice President JD Vance denies the reality of the ongoing conflict with Iran despite six months of military action.

How the Early Dreams of the Internet Changed

The Atlantic — A reflection on the shift of technology from a countercultural tool to a centralized force of corporate control.

Republicans ask the Supreme Court to give them a huge discount on ad spending

Vox — The GOP seeks a judicial ruling to lower campaign advertising costs, potentially tilting the electoral playing field.

In an era of shifting norms, how do you see these institutional changes affecting your community? Write to us and share your perspective.