No recall mechanism/sanction for lying about intentions after the vote is the core problem of modern democracy. We read news in real time but takes 4 years to throw the liars out. Its too easy for the corrupt lot.
Yeah, it seems easily fixed. Also, instantly recallable delegates are a feature of anarchist systems, which representative democracy should learn from.
The House and Senate have complete control over their members.
Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour, and, with the Concurrence of two thirds, expel a Member.
It would take 67 votes in the Senate, but they absolutely could expel him. That won’t happen because it would require getting now 12-14 republicans on their side to kick him out, and he’s useful to republicans.
I think that’s the only real solution to the problem that’s laid out in the current legal framework. It’s historically pretty difficult to pull off though.
How is he actually still a candidate? Genuine question, I don’t follow US politics that closely.
He’s not, but he still has the rest of his term to serve. Unfortunately there is no recall mechanism either.
No recall mechanism/sanction for lying about intentions after the vote is the core problem of modern democracy. We read news in real time but takes 4 years to throw the liars out. Its too easy for the corrupt lot.
I wouldn’t say core problem but it’s definitely a critical component missing from any ernest attempt at actual democracy.
Yeah, it seems easily fixed. Also, instantly recallable delegates are a feature of anarchist systems, which representative democracy should learn from.
Can… can he be impeached?
The House and Senate have complete control over their members.
It would take 67 votes in the Senate, but they absolutely could expel him. That won’t happen because it would require getting now 12-14 republicans on their side to kick him out, and he’s useful to republicans.
I think that’s the only real solution to the problem that’s laid out in the current legal framework. It’s historically pretty difficult to pull off though.
Doesn’t impeachment require actual illegal acts?
Impeachment is what Congress can do to other branches.
I believe you are right. I think the correct action they would take in this case is “expulsion from the Senate”
Which as far as I know can’t be done except by the body itself or if they are criminally charged with something
Senate seats are only up for reelected every 6 years so he has not had to be a candidate.