Source link : https://theamericannews.net/america/usa/hilary-koch-schadenfreude-wont-save-america/
After the election, President Biden addressed the nation, declaring, “You can’t love your country only when you win.” It’s a brilliant sentiment because it carries layers of meaning for all Americans — for Trump and Republicans who questioned our electoral system after the 2020 election, and for Democrats now reeling from the shock of how the country could elect a man many see as the antithesis of American values.
Since the election, like many Democrats, I’ve been on an emotional rollercoaster — disbelief, sadness, disappointment, anger, and fear. I was certain the presidential election would serve as a referendum on the will of the American people. It did. But it wasn’t the referendum I had hoped for. With Republicans now controlling the White House, Senate, and House, the verdict is clear. The temptation to turn off the news and disappear for four years is strong.
Some Democrats might be tempted to let Trump’s second term unravel under the weight of its own promises, believing that when his policies fail, the American people will turn against him. I’ve noted a disturbing attitude emerging: “You voted for him, now deal with the consequences.”
Schadenfreude won’t save America — it’s unproductive and undemocratic.
The true beauty of American democracy lies in its call to serve every citizen, not only those who share our views. The election was a referendum on the current political landscape, showing that Trump’s message resonated deeply. If Democrats want to win back voters, they need to recognize what appealed to them and act on it. This means extending a hand, listening without judgment, and rebuilding trust.
I can almost hear the frustration: “But the right is spewing so much hateful rhetoric!” Therapists often say that “feelings are never wrong.” We can debate evidence endlessly, but real resolution comes only when people feel seen and heard. Trump didn’t win by offering detailed policies; he won by validating the frustrations of many Americans. Democrats focused too much on proving points with data without acknowledging that many voters wanted to feel heard. They felt seen and understood by Trump. Democrats must learn to do the same.
Listening isn’t about passive nodding; it’s about seeking true understanding. We must be willing to engage with Trump supporters and say, “Tell me more about why you feel this way.” It’s not about endorsing every view but showing a readiness to understand its roots. For many, their vote was driven not by racism or misogyny but by economic anxiety, distrust in the system, or feeling left behind. When we listen to understand, we build bridges. And when things inevitably go wrong in the next four years, people will remember who cared.
But we can’t wait for Trump’s policies to fail or hope for a political reckoning. Even if his policies cause harm, he’ll deflect and blame others. His early appointments, like nominating Matt Gaetz for attorney general, suggest he’s setting up scapegoats, placing controversial figures in key positions to avoid accountability. Counting on his failures alone is a losing strategy; Democrats must be proactive, preparing to counter his narrative and show how their policies offer a stronger path forward rooted in shared American values.
Democrats should reclaim patriotism by reframing policies as fundamentally American priorities. They should borrow a page from Trump’s playbook and connect with voters emotionally, emphasizing strength, pride, and unity. For example, climate action isn’t just an environmental policy; it’s about “defending our homeland” from rising sea levels, protecting American farmers from drought, and leading in innovation. Health care reform means “Healthy Americans, Stronger Future” — taking care of our own to ensure everyone has a fair chance. Education investment is about “Empowering American Minds” to prepare our workers for a stronger future. What’s more American than “United We Rise, United We Thrive?”
While national Democrats work to rebuild trust and reshape our message, state leaders can show what effective, responsive governance looks like in action. Democratic-led states like Maine have a unique chance to lead by example. With Republicans dominating federally, state governments must act as a counterbalance. They should allocate funds for strategic communication that distinguishes local successes from federal failures. When national policies cause economic pain, state leaders must show voters how their initiatives alleviate harm.
Finally, Democrats can’t claim to listen while cutting off those who supported Trump. I’ve seen friends say they’re severing ties with anyone who voted for him. How does that help? We need to keep the lines of communication open and show Trump supporters we respect them enough to listen. Winning hearts and minds requires connection, not disconnection. It’s the hard work of democracy, but it’s the only way forward.
We can’t afford to wait or hope for change; we must create it. The time to act is now. Democrats must listen, engage, and build the bridges that will carry us toward a stronger, united America.
Copy the Story Link
Author :
Publish date : 2024-11-16 20:05:00
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
—-
Author : theamericannews
Publish date : 2024-11-17 12:24:15
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.