Democrats celebrated major victories this November, winning the governorships in New Jersey and Virginia, the mayoral race in New York City, and passing California’s Proposition 50, a measure tightening their control over congressional redistricting. To many voters, these results signaled stability and a desire for “steady leadership.”
But from a libertarian point of view, this wave should raise serious concern because every time the government grows, individual freedom shrinks.
A Nation More Polarized Than Ever
America isn’t just divided; it’s locked into political trench warfare. Each election, voters are told the other side is an existential threat that the country will collapse if their party loses. And so, people keep voting along party lines, even when neither party represents their real interests.
This polarization serves the politicians, not the people. It keeps power concentrated in the hands of two entrenched parties while silencing independent voices. The result is predictable: bigger government, less accountability, and endless fighting that distracts from real solutions.
Libertarians reject this false choice. Freedom doesn’t belong to one side of the aisle; it belongs to everyone.
Power Always Expands, Just in Different Directions
It doesn’t matter which major party is in charge government power keeps expanding, just from different angles.
When Democrats lead, government grows in the name of safety, equality, and public welfare. That means more spending, more regulation, and more control over personal and economic life, always justified as “helping” or “protecting” people.
When Republicans lead, government grows in the name of security, morality, and patriotism. That brings more surveillance, policing powers, and restrictions on privacy or speech all said to “keep us safe” or “preserve our values.”
The slogans change, but the outcome is the same: a bigger state and smaller individual liberty.
The Libertarian View
From a libertarian perspective, this isn’t about left vs. right, it’s about power vs. freedom.
Both parties believe they can use government force to build a “better” society. Libertarians believe people build better lives when they’re free to make their own choices.
As the old saying goes:
“The difference between the left and right isn’t how much power they want it’s what they want to use it for.”
Real progress doesn’t come from Washington or Springfield. It comes from individuals, families, and communities solving problems through voluntary cooperation, personal responsibility, and respect for one another’s rights.
Because freedom isn’t what either major party gives it’s what government always takes away.
