Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

General Discussion

applegrove

(131,252 posts) Sat Feb 14, 2026, 07:44 PM Saturday

When the people fear their government that's fascism. When the government fears the people

When the people fear their government that's fascism. When the government fears the people that democracy. Let's get that back NOW.
— I'm disgusted and embarrassed! (@sawbuzz.bsky.social) 2026-02-14T02:49:32.210Z

3 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

When the people fear their government that's fascism. When the government fears the people (Original Post) applegrove Saturday OP

I'm not totally on board with those words Brother Buzz Saturday #1

For sure there needs to be respect. But crooked politicians need to fear the institutions applegrove Saturday #2

Crooked politicians need to fear the public, for sure Brother Buzz Saturday #3

Brother Buzz

(39,748 posts)

1. I'm not totally on board with those words

Reply to applegrove (Original post)

Sat Feb 14, 2026, 07:49 PM

Saturday

I would amend it to read:

When the government respect the people, that democracy.

applegrove

(131,252 posts)

2. For sure there needs to be respect. But crooked politicians need to fear the institutions

Reply to Brother Buzz (Reply #1)

Sat Feb 14, 2026, 07:58 PM

Saturday

the people have built through democracy to keep them straight. Countries with corruption have shitty economies and employment. They need to be afraid of losing the next election. Trump mesmerized 39% of the country into not being afraid and look what that has wrought. Of course it is a simple adage and does not encapsulate everything. But it speaks a truth.

Brother Buzz

(39,748 posts)

3. Crooked politicians need to fear the public, for sure

Reply to applegrove (Reply #2)

Sat Feb 14, 2026, 08:04 PM

Saturday

Reply to this discussion