Thursday night, I watched Hillary Clinton deliver a remarkable acceptance speech – officially declaring her the first female presidential nominee in U.S. history.
This is a moment that will be looked back at and replayed for future generations. However, I felt terrible throughout the whole speech. I was not upset that she became the nominee. In fact, I agreed with nearly everything she said in her speech. I do not hate Hillary Clinton as a person or a leader. No, I support her and am proud to do so now that Bernie Sanders is not an option. I was not upset.
I was afraid. I am afraid.
As she was making history on stage, I feared for what would happen if she lost the presidency. All of this would be for nothing. All of these momentous achievements, hard work and dedication from both Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and the DNC would be for nothing.
I am afraid that Bernie or the Bust people will remain prejudiced against Hillary and cost us the election by voting third party. They will use their privilege to justify allowing Trump to win because neither third party candidates will win the presidency. This isn't up for debate. This is fact. Voting third party is voting for Trump. But facts, unfortunately, do not appear to be enough right now.
I do not care if you dislike her. I really do not give a damn.
She is a strong, qualified candidate that supports progressive and important values. The adopted DNC party platform is the single most progressive party platform in history. There is a real chance for change – a chance to make a difference.
However, there is an equal chance for ruin if Donald Trump is elected.
Donald Trump goes against every single value I hold. He is a greedy, egotistic madman who will say anything and everything to get power. He has hijacked a radical Republican party that has allowed him to prosper and spread hate and fear to our nation. He could ruin our country. I am not exaggerating. Placing an inexperienced, unstable pawn in the most important position of power in our country would be a catastrophe.
The world is afraid of us. I am afraid of us.
We cannot let Donald Trump become the President of the United States. For God's sake, vote for Hillary Clinton in November. Register to vote, show up to the polls or send in an absentee ballot. Even if you cannot vote or do not live in the U.S., encourage others to support Hillary Clinton and vote for her. Don't allow idealism to cost us the election. Do whatever you can to help her win. There is a real chance Trump could win this election if we do not rise up and stop this madness.
Hillary Clinton must win.
