Instruments of Power
When representatives fail to serve the people, citizens have powerful tools to restore accountability. These are peaceful, lawful instruments of democratic power.
Constitutional Convention
Article V permits a convention to propose constitutional amendments if two-thirds of state legislatures apply. No Article V convention has ever been held, but several attempts came close.
Economic Veto
An organized boycott that pools buying power to send a message that can't be ignored. When enough of us stop buying, they have to listen.
Primaries
Challenge dishonest incumbents inside their own party. In safe districts, the real election is the primary—change the representative without waiting for the general election.
General Elections
Field and fund independent or third-party challengers when both major parties fail to represent the electorate. Break the duopoly.
Recall Elections
Remove elected officials from office before their term ends when they betray the public trust. Available in 19 states for state officials, and many localities.
Direct Democracy
Bypass unresponsive representatives entirely and legislate directly. Citizens can propose new laws or veto bad ones through direct democracy.
Petitions
Demand specific commitments or resignations through formal requests signed by multiple people. Protected by the First Amendment right to petition.
Demonstrations
Direct, lawful expression of organized disapproval through protests, marches, rallies, and vigils. Public displays of collective sentiment.
Strikes
Withhold labor to force accountability. The collective refusal to work until specific demands are met—one of the most powerful tools available to workers.
Ready to take action?
These instruments work best when used strategically and in combination. Join Whitepine to coordinate collective action with other citizens who are committed to democratic accountability.