The Illusion of Political Importance
G.K. Chesterton once observed, “A certain amount of acting is necessary to keep up the illusion that important events are happening…” His insight reveals how politics often masks truth. Many today believe that elected bodies genuinely decide policy, yet decisions are often made elsewhere.
Political theater thrives while authentic voter power diminishes. The illusion is maintained by parties that mimic democracy, but bypass its core: the honest vote.
Scripture teaches otherwise. “The truth will set you free” (John 8:32, a call to live in the light of God’s justice).
The Courtroom Standard of Truth
Ordinary citizens are sworn to speak only truth: “I will tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God.” That high standard demands integrity. But in politics, such oaths are replaced with evasions, spin, and secrecy.
The Catechism warns us: “By its very nature, lying is to be condemned. It is a profanation of speech” (CCC 2485). Yet truth becomes rare in public discourse, particularly when voters cannot choose candidates freely.
As Dante makes clear, “The souls of those engaged in complex frauds spend eternity being tormented in the lower circles of hell.” These punishments reflect God’s justice for public deceit.
The Need for Secret Ballots
Real democracy demands the secret ballot. But political parties often select candidates in closed rooms before any vote. Voters are then offered only pre-approved names. This lack of transparency shows profound disrespect.
“Love each other as much as brothers should, and have a profound respect for each other” (Romans 12:10, a reminder that justice begins with honor).
Instead, vanity replaces love. Many reject the humility needed to allow secret ballots in primaries and caucuses. Political elites fear the will of the people because it threatens their control.
Prayer, Not Hatred, for the Deceived
We must not hate corrupt leaders. Instead, we should pray they repent. Scripture commands, “Love God and your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39, the second greatest commandment).
Let us urge them to reject deception and embrace truth. As the Catechism says, “Truthfulness keeps to the just mean between what ought to be expressed and what ought to be kept secret” (CCC 2488).
Inspired by Dante, Chesterton, and St. Paul, we must restore sacred trust in elections. That begins by requiring secret ballots in all candidate selections—and praying for those who still resist the truth.
“Let truth be spoken, lies denied—
Let justice walk where fraud has died.”
