Does it seem to you, like many others, that one of the reasons our nation is so divided is that there are different, held views of what this nation stands for (and should stand for), and stands for, and how? should we move into the future? When Donald Trump proclaims his famous slogan, Make America Great Again, he creates different emotions, points of view and beliefs, in what that means and represents, and if it is a good thing or a bad thing. The America of today is perhaps the most divided in recent memory, and trying to get all or most of the factions to work together, for the greater good, often seems almost impossible! Depending on perspective, political/personal beliefs, preferences, etc., there seem to be significantly different visions of what this nation should be and represent. With that in mind, this article will attempt to briefly consider, examine, review, and discuss 7 examples and why they are significant.
1. Benefit a few, against many: Many policies etc. that we have witnessed in recent years seem to benefit the wealthiest people and largest corporations, and have done little for most everyone else! This has been the case, on many occasions, including: the tax reform legislation, approved in 2017; favorable treatment for certain friends, partners and donors, etc.; how the stimulus funds were divided, during this pandemic, etc.
2. Equal rights, versus, selective: No American document mentions the selective application of these freedoms, rights and justice, for – all, but emphasizes, equal, for all, regardless of their status, etc! While there are many reasons for the degree of unrest in this nation, one area that seems to be dividing us is the lack of support from the current administration to address some of the many areas and components of systemic racism!
3. Atmosphere: Although, for decades, our presidents have tried to protect the environment and create/enforce certain essential regulations, especially in terms of clean air, water, etc., President Trump has signed numerous executive orders to reduce, eliminate, and oppose these measures. While, he claims, doing so will benefit the nation, economically, etc., others claim that doing so will harm future generations and a safer, healthier life!
4. Climate change: Almost all reputable scientists and climate experts agree that climate change is not only real, but also a clear potential danger to the sustainability of the world. Trump withdrew us from the Paris Accords and claims it is a combination of deceit. , and a radical idea! His vision of him is, it costs too much, to keep these regulations!
5. Populism, versus, Sustainable: Many politicians proceed, with populist rhetoric, emphasizing some existing/present populist issue/challenge etc., while others realize that if we do not proceed, consistently, in a well-considered, relevant and sustainable way, We lose, in the bigger picture!
6. Loving, versus, hating your neighbor: Trump’s approach appears to be antagonistic and polarizing, often blaming, complaining, and blaming individuals/groups, such as immigrants, specific ethnicities/races, etc., his political opponents and other nations, etc. Doesn’t it seem like common sense though, if we don’t seek to work together, for the greater good, and work diligently, to create a meeting of minds, everyone loses?
7. Unifying, versus, polarizing: In recent memory, most of us cannot recall any other public leader who seemed to be as polarizing an influence as this president. He seems to think it works for him, but wouldn’t unifying us make America bigger and considerably saner?
There are different views and preferences in the United States today. How we proceed, go ahead, will probably determine our future!