Is the world really wondering what’s happening to America?
The media certainly portrays it that way. Living in America often feels like business as usual, even as some pockets of the population worry about the nation’s trajectory. For individuals, life goes on. Each election season, one party triumphs over the other, influencing policies—some good, some bad, some neutral. When Republicans take power, they often undo Democratic policies, and vice versa. Every election season comes with the same message: “It’s now or never.” Yet, the cycle repeats, elections come and go, and life carries on. However, as I say this, also I can’t help but think of those who will be impacted by anti-abortion laws and mass deportations. While the new administration may bring regressive changes, some things, like mass deportations, are likely to continue as business as usual. Contrary to popular belief, deportations have occurred under every administration. The difference now is that they are increasingly politicized and used as a tool to manipulate public opinion. Regardless, amid this chaos, I wanted to share my thoughts, starting with the big question:
Why did the Democrats lose?
This election loss for Democrats wasn’t a one-time event; it’s part of a longer decline. In reality, both major parties—Republicans and Democrats—have drifted far from their origins. Polarization has reached extreme levels, and neither side seems willing to engage constructively with the other.
On top of that, the Democrats’ elitist mindset has only worsened the situation. When Hillary Clinton lost, Democrats made a critical mistake by sidelining Bernie Sanders. Leaked documents revealed clear bias against Sanders, a candidate funded by grassroots donors who championed income inequality and the middle class. Opting for Clinton may have seemed strategic, but it alienated young Democratic voters. Since then, the party’s credibility has only dampened further.
A repeat of history in 2024
Fast forward to this year, and history repeated itself. The Democrats initially pushed for Joe Biden, but when he backed out last minute, they pivoted to Kamala Harris. While I support the idea of a woman president and admire the sentiment of breaking barriers, Harris’s loss wasn’t entirely surprising. Doubts already brewing within the party became undeniable after the Republican win.
Observations on Kamala Harris’s campaign
From a neutral perspective, Harris’s campaign had notable shortcomings. She seemed to view the opposing side as inherently wrong, which, while understandable, can be counterproductive. Completely shutting down opposing views alienates potential voters.
Democrats’ rigid stance and unwillingness to engage with dissenting voices cost them an opportunity to attract a broader base. For instance, Harris declining to appear on Joe Rogan’s podcast was a missed opportunity to reach a diverse audience. While this alone wouldn’t have guaranteed a win, it symbolized a broader issue: a lack of open-mindedness.
Democrats also struggled with consistency. Their support for immigration is commendable, but extreme statements—such as suggesting undocumented immigrants should vote—hand Republicans easy talking points. By leaning into polarizing rhetoric, they lose sight of broader, achievable goals.
A note on immigration and taxes
Immigration is a recurring hot topic. Let’s face it, migration isn’t new. People have moved across borders for centuries in search of better lives. No policy will fully stop determined individuals. It’s a complex, nuanced issue that requires thoughtful consideration and a sensitive approach that far more than what a single election cycle can address.
As for taxes, I’m all for paying my fair share to support affordable housing and social services. Wealth inequality is a persistent issue, and billionaires refusing to pay higher taxes is disappointing. The rich won’t become poor by contributing more, and ultimately, someone has to bear the cost of progress. While government inefficiency is a concern, efforts like the proposed Department of Government Efficiency, though controversial, are worth watching. I’m curious to see if it can bring meaningful change without harming vulnerable groups.
In conclusion
Life goes on. Elections come and go, policies shift, and debates rage, but America persists. The key, perhaps, lies in finding a middle ground—moving away from extremes and focusing on solutions that unite rather than divide. Until then, the fight continues.