In a surprising turn of events, David Brooks, known for his moderate views and tendency to side with Democrats, has spoken out against the actions of four unelected judges who have ruled to take former President Trump off the 2024 election ballot. During an appearance on PBS, Brooks expressed his strong disagreement with the decision, stating that it would cause the country to “explode” under the most “dubious possible circumstances.”
The discussion arose from the recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Colorado, which invoked the Insurrection Clause of the 14th Amendment to declare that Trump is ineligible to appear on the state’s primary ballot. With similar legal efforts underway in multiple states, the issue is expected to reach the Supreme Court, prompting host Amna Nawaz to ask for Brooks’ opinion.
In response, Brooks vehemently opposed the decision, arguing that the power held by a highly educated and culturally powerful “meritocratic class” has led to the rise of populist movements in several Western countries, including the United States. According to Brooks, the actions of the judges represent a prime example of this elite group exerting its influence, and he warned that such interference in the democratic process would have catastrophic consequences.
Brooks’ candid remarks on the PBS program, “PBS NewsHour,” reflect a rare departure from his usual stance on political issues, particularly on matters related to the Republican party and Trump. His bold criticism of the judicial intervention in the election process underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential ramifications of such actions on the country’s stability.
As the video of the interview circulated online, viewers were struck by Brooks’ uncharacteristic alignment with conservative viewpoints, with many commending him for his insightful analysis of the situation. While some were surprised by his stance, others saw it as a sign of broader concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the growing influence of an elite class.
The clip of Brooks’ impassioned comments has generated widespread discussion on social media platforms, with many questioning the implications of the judges’ decision and the broader implications for the future of American democracy. In light of the intense polarization and tension surrounding the upcoming 2024 election, Brooks’ remarks have sparked an important dialogue about the role of the judiciary and the need to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Regardless of one’s political allegiance, Brooks’ unequivocal condemnation of the judges’ intervention serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of upholding democratic norms and preserving the integrity of the electoral system. As the controversy continues to unfold, his words serve as a poignant reflection of the deepening divisions within American society and the urgent need to address the underlying issues that have contributed to the current political climate.
