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Earlier on Thursday, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries articulated a pointed sentiment on CNN, asserting that the United States has been navigating through a constitutional crisis since January 20th.
Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters, alongside Dianna Wynn, the organization’s president, issued a stark statement addressing this ongoing turmoil:
“As of today, it has been 87 days since the inauguration of the Trump administration. The blatant disregard for congressional authority and the checks and balances that are vital to our government, coupled with the recent defiance of Supreme Court orders regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia, underscores a troubling reality: our nation is indeed in a constitutional crisis.”
“It is imperative that we, the people, take action. This is the motivation behind the League of Women Voters launching a formidable new initiative, Unite and Rise 8.5.”
“Through Unite and Rise 8.5, we aim to mobilize 8.5 million voters by November 2026, ensuring the protection and preservation of our democratic institutions.”
“The core principles that uphold our democracy — checks and balances, the rule of law, and the integrity of free and fair elections — are currently under direct threat. In this critical moment, business as usual is not an option. All Americans, regardless of their 2024 voting preferences, must unite and take a stand to safeguard our democracy. We owe it to future generations not to fail.”
The objective of this initiative is to engage 8.5 million voters for the 2026 elections, particularly given that Congressional Democrats currently find themselves lacking the power to counteract Trump effectively. The courts have shown a reluctance to take decisive action against the president, while the Republican Party appears to be largely ineffective in this context.
The grassroots movement that seeks to halt Trump’s agenda will be fueled by the people, relying on both protest and a significant turnout at the polls. The assertion is clear: America is in a constitutional crisis, and the remedy lies in grassroots mobilization.
What are your thoughts on the League of Women Voters’ mobilization efforts? We invite you to share your insights in the comments below.