This is the fifth article in our series on campaign words. This time, we’re examining the campaign promise: “I’ll protect freedom.”
At first glance, that promise sounds clear. But is it?
The debate over forced COVID vaccinations exposed just how unclear the phrase can be. In July of 2021, the Arkansas Republican-led Legislature took actions that opened the door for employers to legally force their workforce to take the COVID vaccine—or face termination—after incentive programs had failed. Rather than prioritizing individual liberty, lawmakers allowed policies that empowered corporations and government entities to impose medical mandates on workers.
It was after these legislative decisions that President Biden delivered his now-famous September 9 speech declaring, “Our patience is wearing thin…”—a statement that appeared to reinforce and legitimize the very mandate policies already being implemented by Arkansas employers such as Tyson, Walmart, and hospitals across the state.
Supporters of these mandates framed their position as protecting freedom—specifically, the “freedom” of corporations and government entities to require vaccination as a condition of employment. Others argued from the standpoint of individual liberty: the right to bodily autonomy, privacy, and the ability to keep one’s job without government or corporate coercion.
This debate highlights a critical question voters must ask when candidates promise to “protect freedom”: whose freedom are they talking about? Corporate freedom or individual freedom?
The confusion doesn’t stop there. Pro-abortion advocates also invoke freedom when arguing for allowing women to terminate their unborn children, even up to the point of birth. They frame the issue as being “pro-choice”—the freedom to choose whether to give birth or to abort a child.
When a candidate says, “I will protect freedom,” voters should not assume they know what that means. Instead, ask for specifics. Ask the candidate to give examples. Ask whose freedoms they intend to prioritize.
Seeking clarification isn’t difficult. Most candidates have social media accounts or email addresses, and many are willing to explain their positions. When you reach out, be respectful—and be sure to tell the candidate where you live so they know you are a voter in their district.
Campaign slogans sound good. Clear positions matter more.
ICYMI:
“I balanced the budget”
“I support small business”
“Common Sense Solutions”
ARKANSAS VALUES: Campaign Words Pt. 1
