I, like the majority of serious Americans, take 'democracy' seriously. Coming from Chicago, I especially have reverence for 'democracy'. 'Democracy' has been held so lofty by our society and our leadership that I am just astonished you would dare tarnish it.
First, let me tell you at a local level how much democracy means to me. I live in a strongly Republican district. My last congressman (Norwood) died. I seldom agreed with him, but he at least responded to my tirades to him very politely.
Then it was time to replace him. So now comes 21st Century Democracy! The local political establishment wanted Barry Fleming to win. But what do locals know. Club for Growth wanted Paul Broun to win. They have lots of 'democracy' (or is that money?). So Paul Broun won. He then spent his entire office budget sending out mailers telling everyone how great he was without doing anything.
I'm really proud of the 'democracy' supporting leaders in Congress that didn't dare question Florida in 2000 or Ohio in 2004.
But not as proud as bringing 'democracy' to Iraq! Before we brought 'democracy' there, there were '0' bombings a week. Now there are at most 2 or 3! Sure the middle class fled, corruption is rampant, and basic decisions are impossible because the country is caught between Iran, the U.S., and Saudi pressures. But they got to put an 'x' on a piece of paper. Means a hell of lot more than stupid things like functioning education and health care system (or electricity).
But as a lover a 'democracy', nothing makes me, the New York Times, the Bush administration, prouder than Afghanistan!
That's a political miracle. It also does not add up; some people are apparently registering more than once. ("Vote early and often" is supposed to be a joke. U.S. pollsters have never measured an electorate in which likely voters outnumber registered voters.) But the indisputable fact of the enthusiasm for voting is what is so heartening. Afghans look with wonderment at their secret ballot, and take real risks for the freedom Americans take for granted.
The great sage Safire in the wonderful NYT
So given the great track record I personally have observed by our leaders in the media and political realm, I am shocked you treat 'democracy' so shallow. What is next? A super pac to make a mockery of the esteemed Supreme Court and their infinite wisdom on giving unlimited funding to 'democracy'?