The year 2024 has been pivotal for American politics, underscored by dynamic actions and controversies at the highest levels of government. One of the most significant decisions this year came from President Joe Biden, who commuted the sentences of most federal death row inmates. This move, welcomed by progressives, has sparked debates around justice and the morality of the death penalty.
Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts stated, "I don't believe state-sanctioned murder is justice. It is not a deterrent to crime. It has not repaired societal ills. I don't think it's gotten anyone any closer to healing." Biden's decision affected 37 inmates, leaving only three who remain facing execution, including the notorious Boston Marathon bomber.
Meanwhile, political controversies intensified around former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz as the House Ethics Committee released findings implicative of serious wrongdoing. The report detailed substantial evidence of Gaetz paying for sex, including accusations involving a 17-year-old girl. This investigation, described as "very disturbing" by Illinois Democratic Representative Mike Quigley, led to Gaetz withdrawing from consideration for the position of attorney general of Florida. Gaetz has publicly denied any wrongdoing, claiming the allegations stem from political attacks.
Another major discussion this year has centered on the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). The national archivist declared the amendment could not be certified without additional congressional or court action, which puzzled many lawmakers. Some Democrats are pushing for President Biden to take unilateral action to enact the ERA, claiming it is pivotal for reproductive rights. New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand emphasized, "Too many lives have already been lost because the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. But this is our secret weapon, and it is high time to use it."
Senator Lindsey Graham, representing South Carolina, countered the push for the ERA, arguing, "This amendment would give the court the ability to strike down every pro-life measure passed by the states." Such statements exemplify the growing divide on women's rights and representation, reflecting the complexity of the political arena surrounding the ERA.
Compounded by these major political moves were public discussions around taxation and economic policies. Former President Donald Trump hinted at potential tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans, prompting advocates for low-income families to voice their concerns. Jacob Vigil from Voices for Children asserted, "These tax credits play a really important role in providing assistance to families most in need of support," urging Congress to focus on child tax credits rather than benefiting the wealthy.
Beyond these issues, rural communities have rallied against the U.S. Postal Service's proposal to delay mail deliveries. Annie Norman from the Save the Post Office coalition said, "We're talking about seniors and veterans, folks with disabilities, indigenous communities, and they all need the Postal Service to pay bills and get their social security checks." The pushback highlights the often-overlooked necessities of rural America.
The political narrative of 2024 has also stirred reflections on the roles of various state leaders and their responses to pressing issues. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed speculation about his political positioning, stating, "Knowing the threat of a second Trump presidency far outweighs the discussions we're having now. At this point, if President Biden says he's going forward, then that's where I'm at. I'm working with him."
This sentiment was echoed throughout the year as events unfolded leading up to the presidential election, with politicians from diverse backgrounds reflecting on their roles and responsibilities as representatives. The exuberance and anxiety surrounding the election lit fires of activism and engagement among the people and influenced many legislative agendas.
Another compelling issue arose when discussing transparency and accountability within the Minnesota state governance. Washington County Commissioner Karla Bigham criticized the Met Council for delaying concrete decisions on governance reforms, indicating, "The status quo is going to go forward, and it will perpetuate the lack of transparency and the lack of accountability." This example showcases the broader concerns about trust between elected officials and their constituents.
While the political wheels across the nation turn, activists and ordinary citizens alike pushed for meaningful change. The call for the ERA reflects not simply the desire for policy but also the necessity for societal change to protect individuals from systemic inequities. Adding this amendment to the Constitution could represent the culmination of over 100 years of feminist activism.
The faces of political resistance and advocacy continue to shape the narrative as varying perspectives clash on issues like the ERA and the morality of the death penalty. The year 2024 stands as both a battleground and beacon for political ideologies, as the nation looks toward impending elections and the future of governance.
