I know many of you have been waiting for the next chapter of my book, and I’m just as eager as my readers to see it in print. But with everything going on, I’ve been asked to pause and share some thoughts on the issue that’s on all our minds — the reelection of President Donald Trump. I know it’s a tough pill to swallow for many of you, and if you’re feeling disheartened or confused, maybe this piece can give you a fresh perspective.
For those who didn’t vote for Trump, this outcome may have you feeling shocked, disappointed, or even enraged and bitter. However, if you’re open to it, I invite you to pull up a chair and consider another perspective. I’m not here to deepen the division or claim that I’m right but rather to offer a viewpoint that differs from what you may watch or listen to on CNN, MSNBC, or NPR.
Instead of cursing the over 75 million people who supported Trump, why not recognize that, while you are passionate about topics such as abortion, gender reassignment, free college, and inclusion, these issues were not top of mind for many at the ballot box? This will not change, even if you abandon persuasion and start labeling your opponents as racist and fascist.
The United States is a large and diverse country, and many individuals feel their everyday needs and practical concerns — such as job security, safe neighborhoods, and affordable living costs — are being overlooked. Democratic thought leaders need to recognize that while these issues may resonate with them, their approach can make many people feel unheard, even those who might agree with them on other topics. I believe most people in the U.S. are not as divided as we might think. I don’t hate my neighbors; I simply disagree with their ideas and methods. Your way isn’t the only way.
Deep down, many of us still hold on to similar values and hopes. We want good lives for our families, a fair shot at opportunity, and a sense of stability. I understand the U.S. isn’t perfect and that there have been dark periods, but I’m not interested in scrapping what our founding fathers built, even if a few of them owned slaves. If you want to remake the United States, do it with the people’s consent. I’m not in favor of tearing down anything to replace it with the Democratic vision of the world.
I don’t understand how those who advocate for open borders can justify their stance. They supported fencing off the Capitol during the insurrection, yet they think it’s acceptable to open the borders, allowing everyone to enter undetected. This approach seems naive, and it raises concerns about bad intentions. I support legal immigration and the establishment of fair, reasonable borders, but the actions of these advocates push me to a more extreme position, like calling for building a wall. It feels like they have no regard for my life and safety.
These ideas are not radical to me; they form the framework that has enabled many of us, including our families before us, to pursue the American dream. I believe many in the United States share this vision.
Let’s remember compromise has always been a crucial part of progress in our country. For instance, the Civil Rights Act was not passed solely by idealists; it resulted from leaders willing to reach across the aisle, find common ground, and make compromises. They understood that to move forward, we sometimes need to listen, compromise, and maintain a broad vision.
Today, many Democrats seem dismissive of differing opinions, often insisting their approach is the only smart one and expecting everyone to fall in line. This attitude can alienate many and lead them to say, “I will support Trump,” even if they disagree with him on certain issues.
I don’t believe that Trump supporters and progressives are enemies. Most of the Trump supporters I know are not looking to harm anyone; they just want to live in peace, make ends meet, and raise their families in a stable environment. In the end, I think we all desire similar things. However, when people feel unheard or misrepresented, they begin to search for leaders who will advocate for them — even if those leaders aren’t perfect.
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be this: perhaps it’s time for some reflection and balance. Let’s look beyond the headlines and seek common ground, even in unexpected places. What if we shifted our focus from divisions to the shared challenges we all face? I believe there is a way forward where we might not agree on everything, yet can still respect each other’s perspectives and work together to build a better future.
So, to those who are feeling down, take heart. Our country’s been through a lot, and every challenge is a chance to grow. If there’s a lesson here, maybe it’s that Americans are looking for leaders who hear them, who value both progress and stability, and who know that listening and compromise are the foundations of real change. If we can find a way to work from this place of understanding, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. And who knows? Maybe that’s how we truly heal and move forward.
