The Cost of Politicizing Democracy: The Jim Jordan Paradox
As the fumes of discontent and division continue to swirl around American politics, Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio finds himself at the eye of the storm. Recent findings from the House select committee investigating January 6 have implicated Jordan as a “significant player” in former President Trump’s efforts to challenge the 2020 election results. What’s even more alarming is the charge that Jordan’s actions went beyond mere vocal support to include clandestine meetings and multiple communications on the very day the Capitol was besieged.
The ‘Democracy’ of Obstruction
The same democratic principles that Jordan vowed to uphold when taking office have been casually pushed to the side in a blind allegiance to a single man — Donald Trump. Jordan didn’t just question the 2020 election results; he took it a step further by actively participating in meetings to plot strategies to overturn those results. There is an undeniable irony in a legislator using the instruments of democracy to delegitimize it.
His refusal to cooperate with the House select committee’s subpoena for testimony adds another layer to the saga. Such actions raise the question: What, exactly, does he have to hide? Not complying with a lawful subpoena is a concerning action from someone who should be a model of compliance and transparency.
‘Political Terrorism’ and Moral Bankruptcy
Jake Tapper of CNN didn’t mince words when he branded Jordan a “political terrorist.” This might sound like an emotional exaggeration at first glance, but when you dissect the language, there’s a hard truth to it. Terrorism seeks to create a climate of fear and instability, often aimed at disrupting the usual functioning of a society or institution.
By intentionally spreading misinformation about the 2020 election and thus contributing to the climate that led to January 6, Jordan sowed discord and uncertainty, undermining the very democracy he is sworn to protect. And if Tapper’s accusations are correct, this wouldn’t be the first time Jordan has been embroiled in a moral quagmire. Jordan’s alleged role in the Ohio State University sexual abuse scandal, where he stands accused of ignoring complaints from wrestlers about a team doctor, calls into question his very moral authority.
The Collateral Damage: A Stunted GOP and a Wary Nation
While it’s easy to focus on Jordan as an individual, the implications of his actions reach far beyond him. Republicans like Rep. Liz Cheney are rightfully questioning Jordan’s eligibility for leadership roles like Speaker of the House. For the GOP, embracing figures like Jordan who flaunt a cavalier attitude towards democracy could very well be an albatross around their collective neck.
Furthermore, his actions could lead to legal repercussions, ranging from criminal charges to sanctions for obstructing a congressional investigation. Such penalties would not just be a blow to Jordan, but also to the credibility and moral standing of the institution he represents.
