Reviving Trust: A Young Veteran’s Battle for Democracy in the U.S. Supreme Court

As a young U.S. Marine Corps veteran, I hold tightly to the ideals I dedicated my service to protect: liberty, democracy, and equality. My experiences during four years of military service instilled in me the values of Semper Fidelis, or “always faithful,” a mantra I now reflect on as I pursue my studies at Arizona State University. However, recent developments within the U.S. Supreme Court have sparked my concern regarding the integrity of these very principles at home.

The court’s ruling on Arizona’s proof of citizenship requirement for voter registration raises significant alarm over our democratic processes. This decision complicates access to voting, undermining our rights and threatening the personal liberties guaranteed to us as citizens. When access to the ballot box is restricted, we diminish the power of individuals to choose leaders who align with their values and defend our freedoms. Such suppression opens the door for anti-democratic agendas, including policies that undermine reproductive rights.

For many young veterans like myself, our military service transcends simply wearing a uniform; it embodies a commitment to ensuring every American can fully participate in democracy. Yet, recent Supreme Court decisions have imposed additional challenges to voting, particularly for those who have sacrificed their service. This seems like a betrayal of the core principles we fought for.

It feels increasingly challenging to serve in a country that does not reciprocate that service. My decision to join the Marines stemmed from a deep desire to protect democracy and the people it serves. Now, I find myself disheartened by a court that appears to favor the interests of the powerful over the people.

This issue extends beyond veterans; it casts a long shadow over all Americans, especially those in marginalized communities who already confront significant hurdles in exercising their voting rights. The majority of justices have neglected their crucial role in upholding the law, instead enabling forces that seek to erode democracy. This was starkly illustrated by their lack of accountability following the January 6 insurrection, which sought to disenfranchise voters of color in areas such as Maricopa County.

Recently, the Republican National Committee, alongside allies in Arizona, petitioned the Supreme Court to restrict voter registration near election dates, creating confusion and potential disenfranchisement for vulnerable populations, including service members and Native Americans. This strategy serves purely to gain political leverage, rather than protecting Arizonans’ constitutional voting rights.

Every voice deserves equal representation and the actions taken to suppress votes trivialize the Constitution, which I once vowed to uphold. Arizonans and all Americans merit a Supreme Court that prioritizes constitutional principles and defends essential freedoms, particularly our right to vote. There is an urgent need to rebuild trust in our judicial system to ensure it serves everyone, rather than a select few.

I take pride in my service and the sacrifices of my fellow veterans. The battle for democracy continues; as we once served in uniform, we must now actively work to reform the U.S. Supreme Court.