The legacy media, that assured us it stood as a centurion of democracy, has largely gone AWOL — unwilling to confront Trump as confident protectors of press freedom and independence. Many of its most prominent voices have gone silent, others have suffered the humiliation of public capitulation.
Shortly after the election, I wrote about the need for a new opposition movement based on winning elections and developing new institutions of power. I argued that it should be a big tent that is unafraid of good faith debates and differences. I also made clear that we need to nurture and support new, independent media outlets that are willing to embrace a pro-democracy ethos.
Since then, there have been promising signs that an opposition movement is emerging. But the real test begins today.
When Donald Trump walks off the podium and back into the Capitol, his term will begin. He has already promised scores of new executive orders and policies and loyalist officials ready to do his bidding.
It will then be up to each of us to declare for ourselves how we will confront the reality of another four years of Trump. Some will choose to tune out and go about their lives. Others will bend and accommodate.
I have made my choices known for myself and for Democracy Docket:
