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By Raahim Hashmi, Duke Undergraduate Student
In a time when American democracy is being tested by growing divisions, Duke students had the opportunity to hear from a notable Duke alum, Barry Berke, who served as chief impeachment counsel to the House of Representatives during the Senate impeachment trial of former President Trump. During my conversation with Mr. Berke before his lecture and throughout the lecture itself, he emphasized how the 2020 election provided a stark reminder of both democracy’s fragility and resilience. Through historical context, from the contested election of 1800 to the challenges of 2000 and 2020, Mr. Berke underscored the complexities of the U.S. electoral system and its vulnerabilities. Yet, he also highlighted the safeguards and reforms that allow democracy to endure despite these challenges.
A central theme of his lecture was the resilience of the institutions that govern the electoral process. From state officials who stood firm against baseless claims of election fraud to courts that upheld the integrity of results, the system, despite its flaws, largely functioned as intended. However, Mr. Berke noted that this reliance on institutions, often pushed to their limits, exposes a more profound concern: democracy is only as strong as the trust we place in its foundations. In 2020, this trust was tested by violence, disinformation, and polarization, nearly undermining the legitimacy of the election.
As Mr. Berke emphasized, elections are not just procedural events but are about defending the principles that bind a diverse and divided society. The challenge lies in ensuring both the mechanics of elections function and fostering the trust required to sustain them. The 2020 election, while secure, revealed a dangerous erosion of belief in a fair process. To avoid similar crises, he stressed the need for reforms, such as the successful passage of the 2022 overhaul of the Electoral Count Act and the critical task of countering disinformation and divisiveness that fuel distrust.
A particularly impactful moment of the discussion was Mr. Berke’s reflection on the importance of pursuing meaningful work rather than positions of power. As a go-to figure for high-stakes legal and political cases (although he is a trial lawyer full-time), Mr. Berke chooses his service strategically, focusing on where he can have the greatest impact. He shared how he has prioritized pro bono cases, emphasizing the importance of service and justice over power. Unlike many high-profile figures, he does not seek to write memoirs or dominate media narratives but instead remains dedicated to excelling in his craft as a lawyer.
This philosophy resonated deeply with me. Success, as Mr. Berke illustrated through his career, is not about the titles we chase but about the dedication we bring to work that matters. By focusing on what we are passionate about and striving to be exceptional, success and fulfillment follow naturally. Members of Congress and state officials seek his counsel because of his expertise and commitment to his role, not because he sought higher office.
This approach not only leads to authentic impact but also sustains the integrity and fulfillment needed to navigate life’s challenges. The conversation with Mr. Berke reminded me that democracy, too, thrives on such principles. Beyond institutional safeguards, it is our collective commitment to its ideals—justice, fairness, and trust—that ensures its survival. In moments of crisis, as in 2020, small actions—whether defending the truth, volunteering, or fostering understanding—can collectively uphold the integrity of our republic.
As we were reminded in the lecture, in the words of Benjamin Franklin, the United States is “a republic, if you can keep it.” Preserving it requires not only institutional strength but also individual dedication to meaningful work and shared values. It’s a reminder that whether in our careers or our democracy, authentic success comes from commitment, trust, and the pursuit of work that truly matters.
Raahim Hashmi is a first-year student from Piscataway, New Jersey, pursuing a major in Public Policy and a certificate in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. With aspirations to attend law school, Raahim aims to build a career at the intersection of law and public service. At Duke, he serves as Senator in Duke Student Government and writes for the Undergraduate Law Review.