Why Anarchists Should Consider Voting for Harris and Walz
Pragmatic Engagement: Anarchists typically advocate for dismantling the state, participating in elections can be seen as a pragmatic approach to influence the system from within. Voting for candidates like Harris and Walz allows anarchists to support policies that may align with their values, even if they do not fully endorse the political system.
Support for Social Justice: Both candidates prioritize social justice initiatives, including racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic justice. Supporting these issues aligns with the anarchist commitment to social equity and community empowerment.
Focus on Community Needs: Harris and Walz advocate for policies that address community needs, such as healthcare, education, and housing. By voting for them, anarchists can promote community-oriented solutions that resonate with their values of mutual aid and collective well-being.
Opposition to Authoritarianism: Harris and Walz are committed to defending democratic institutions and protecting individual rights. Anarchists can support candidates who oppose authoritarianism and promote civil liberties, even if they do not agree with all aspects of their platforms.
Incremental Change: While anarchists seek radical transformation, engaging in the electoral process can facilitate incremental change that helps dismantle oppressive structures. Supporting progressive candidates can create a political environment more conducive to long-term anarchist goals.
Building Alliances: Voting can serve as a means to build alliances with other progressive groups and individuals. Collaborating with a broader coalition can strengthen efforts toward mutual goals, even if those goals differ in scope or vision.
Influencing Policy Discussions: By participating in the electoral process, anarchists can help push issues they care about into the mainstream conversation. Supporting candidates who prioritize social justice and community well-being can amplify these messages.
Practical Outcomes: Ultimately, voting for candidates like Harris and Walz can lead to practical outcomes that improve the lives of marginalized communities. Even if anarchists disagree with the system, advocating for policies that benefit the populace aligns with their principles of justice and equality.
Anarchists may not typically engage in the electoral process, voting for Harris and Walz can be a strategic decision to support social justice initiatives, defend democratic values, and promote community-oriented policies. By participating, they can influence the system in ways that align with their broader goals of equity and justice.
I was once a Republican voter, but over time, I’ve come to realize that the American conservative movement as we knew it is dead. The principles that once defined the party—fiscal responsibility, limited government, and individual liberty—have been overshadowed by divisive rhetoric and extreme ideologies that no longer represent the values I believe in.
Today, many of us find ourselves disillusioned by the political landscape. Instead of focusing on common goals and shared values, the emphasis has shifted to partisanship and polarization. This shift has created an environment where unity seems impossible, but I believe that’s precisely what we need now more than ever.
It’s time for those of us who have been marginalized by the extremes—whether from the right or the left—to come together and forge a new path. By uniting, we can reclaim the values that promote genuine dialogue, cooperation, and progress. We need to prioritize policies that uplift communities, protect individual rights, and foster understanding across ideological divides.
In this new political landscape, let’s embrace the idea that collaboration is essential. Together, we can build a future that reflects the best of our ideals, regardless of party affiliation. The American conservative movement may be dead, but the potential for a united, progressive movement is very much alive.