By Leo Narrison, Campus Carrier Graphics Editor
This election has brought about a series of headlines and controversy that would be fit for the likes of Hollywood. The citizens of the United States have been exposed to drama, suspense and even comedic relief during this historic campaign season. It is difficult to comprehend that, out of this chaos, a new leader of the free world will be sworn into office. Regardless of what candidate you may have given your vote to or for what reason you chose to do so, it is important for the people of our nation to stand together. Unfortunately, the opposite has become apparent; our society has recently displayed a trend that points to the disunity of the population.
“Fear” is a word that has been thrown around all too often during the past year. Fear for our safety. Fear for our country. Fear of our future. This fear stems from an uncertainty within us and that uncertainty can only subside once we, the citizens of the United States, can trust each other and those governing over us. These sources of distrust have ultimately created dividing lines within our society that are altering the interactions of our daily lives.
The most influential impact that the forty-fifth President of the United States will have will not come from a policy that is signed into law or a program to improve our nation’s youth. The legacy that the next president will be remembered for will be in regard to how they have restored unity within our communities or to how the current divisions were magnified under their watch.
Our country currently rests in a very volatile and vulnerable situation. Just as they do during every election year, the eyes of the world are paying close attention to who will assume the role of commander in chief. These same eyes have also witnessed the tensions that have grown in our society in recent years. The next president will need to manage our internal mishaps while also remaining a powerful figure among foreign leaders. If the president is unable to keep this aspect of the position in balance, then conflict will inevitably arise whether that be between American citizens or from an external influence. America will be in an exposed state until our society can find a way to promote cooperation and peace within our own borders.
Our nation is at its weakest when it fails to remain united. Over the past year, we have witnessed widespread protests, both violent and non-violent. From the burning of American flags to refusing to stand for the playing of the National Anthem, people are speaking out against the current state of American society in remarkable numbers. While this speech is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution, it demonstrates the civil unrest and division within our country. These actions ultimately result in the development of a downward spiral of fear and distrust that continues to grow with each occurrence. It is imperative that the next president finds a way to calm these protests and encourage efforts of unity within our society.
As concerned citizens, we can only hope that the swearing in of the next president will bring about an end to the current strain on our nation and move the United States into a period of restored strength. The population of our great nation will just have to tune in to the next season of America starring Donald J. Trump to see if the country takes a turn for “Friends” or “Survivor.”