By: Prentiss Smith • Contributing Columnist
Immediately after the election, I appeared on a popular morning radio show, and I was surrounded by Republicans who were very happy. I understood their joy, because we always like it when we win, and we hate it when we lose. That’s just the way it is. But as I said on the air, he won, and he is my President, because I am an American.
The people have spoken, and the results are loud, clear, and, for many, deeply troubling. Former President Donald Trump, a figure who I believe has been a very polarizing figure. Despite widespread concerns over his divisive rhetoric, abrasive character, and, at times, a dismissive attitude toward democratic norms, a majority of Americans have decided that his promises on the economy and immigration take precedence over personal conduct and foreign diplomacy.
For me, the election outcome reveals a stark truth about the country, and that is that many citizens prioritize domestic issues like economic security and immigration control above all else, even when the trade-off includes concerns over the very principles that hold our democracy together—the Constitution and the rule of law.
As an American, I recognize the power of a democracy that respects the will of the people—even when that will goes against what I might believe. Like it or not, Donald Trump is the President-elect, and his policies and administration will affect all of us. He is, once again, the leader of the country.
The results are conclusive, and we must acknowledge them, even if some of us are not celebrating. Mr. Trump’s significant victory margin, coupled with likely majorities in the Senate and potentially the House, gives him a clear path to push forward with his policies. He has the mandate and the political machinery to enact change.
But the question I have is, what direction will he choose? That is the question weighing heavily on the minds of Americans from all backgrounds who supported him and millions of others who didn’t. His success comes with a responsibility to govern for all citizens, not just those who align with his policies or style.
His return to office carries the potential to heal divides, create economic opportunities, and address the pressing concerns around immigration reform. However, he has repeatedly shown a vindictive streak toward those he perceives as his enemies—enemies who, in reality, are his fellow Americans.
Will he govern with a spirit of unity, or will he double down on the us-versus-them rhetoric that has previously characterized his approach? I am hoping for unity, but I am prepared for the for the dark side.
The stakes are higher than ever. With control over the executive and likely a powerful legislative branch, the President-elect has the chance to govern decisively.
He can choose to bridge gaps and create policies that speak to all Americans, regardless of their political leanings, or he can use his position to retaliate against dissent, fostering more division. U believe he has an opportunity to focus on issues that matter most—issues that compelled Americans to vote him back in, even if his character and approach often leave much to be desired.
We are now in uncharted territory, and though I may not agree with Mr. Trump on a host of issues, I am still an American. He is my President, and his decisions will influence the country I call home. In our system, democracy is both empowering and humbling; it demands that we accept the results and move forward, challenging though it may be.
As we look ahead to the next four years, I can only hope that he chooses the path of inclusivity and restraint rather than vindictiveness. America deserves a leader who rises above partisanship to serve all its people.
Whether or not I agree with him or not, he has a responsibility to uphold the office with dignity and respect for all Americans, regardless of their background, beliefs, or political alignment. I hope he does that, because he is my President, and I am a proud American. smithpren@aol.com