Post-communist China is run by the Communist Party. Karl Marx’s writings still exert some influence, but mainly as entrails do in the hands of the king’s augur. These putative Communists want only one thing, really: to maintain rule.

The same is true over here, to an extent. Those in power tend not to give up power, and rarely extend it to the people. Too few of these United States have initiative and referendum, and too few politicians work towards more democracy more citizen control. But, thankfully, in America we have a Constitution that limits the powers of our politicians, and a people often willing to fight City Hall, or whomever.

On the island of Hong Kong, they have a Basic Law, signed by the British when they retreated a few years back, as well as by the tyrants in Beijing. That Basic Law call it a Constitution allows for democratization over time, “one country, two systems.” Unfortunately, Beijing recently “interpreted” that Basic Law, saying that anything Hong Kong does would first have to be approved by Beijing. Two countries, one system. Beijing politicians fear that any move towards universal suffrage in Hong Kong or even the selection of a democratic leadership might spread democracy to the mainland.

Which is what we in America hope will happen. Our president has strained relations with Beijing by objecting to the interpretation. Bravo! Now, Mr. President, how about telling baby brother Jeb to stop supporting restrictions to the citizen initiative rights of Florida voters.

This is Common Sense. I’m Paul Jacob.