A significant difference between America and Europe. Rarely does one find in Europe this sort of voluntary action which is capable of forcing government to action without overthrowing it. Tocquevillle took note of this. Europeans generally defer to authority, which is why their welfare states are so much more paternalistic than our own. Our craziness results in more criminals but also more direct democracy, more moderate and long lasting change. Our politcal system lends itself to this, because our congressmen defer to the wishes of their constituents, whereas in Europe, their MPs defer to the party leadership at all times.
Hey, a post that delved into the geopolitical implications of the issue instead of obsessing about the writer's hairstyle. I salute you, sir.
You are absolutely correct. Nothing remotely like this would happen in Europe. For all of its frustrations and messiness, our American republic is unique. The elites in this country, of both parties, DO NOT want this wall. But average Americans have made it abundantly clear that they do. They have won this round, as they win every round they really put their minds to. The wall will be approved, and funded, and built, because too many people are awake to the issue, energized and ready to hold the government's feet to the fire.
That sort of grassroots energy is the quintessential expression of American democracy. Our political system is messy, ugly, frustrating and unwieldy. But 230-odd years on, it is still responsive to the will of the people, and the people, for all their dissatisfaction with everyday politics, know if enough people agree on an issue and make their will known, positive change is probable, if not certain.