The rationale behind support for the sitting president lay in his experience outside of the political world with his candor, straightforward language, and definitive attitude being cited as admiral traits among the liars and cheats of Washington. If one thing has become clear following his election, it is that the American people do not care about that certain je ne sais quoi the Democrats are using as the distinguishing trait in an overcrowded pool of candidates. Looking for someone that conventionally fits the bill - a safe bet, someone who is "electable" and "palatable" - is not going to cut it. 2016 was an ode to the irrational. Besides, what does it even mean to be "presidential?" The current president's track record is as blemished as they come (here's a fun little guide if you're not convinced). Supporters conveniently gloss over horrendous comments he's made - glorified as being "courageous" in a world that values political correctness over honesty - and his failed career as a businessman during the sumptuous final two decades of the twentieth century (see exhibit A and exhibit B). In fact, even Fox News criticized Trump for lacking "an anchor" and seeming "unprepared" in a presidential debate less than two months before Election Day. At this point, the word "presidential" is more of an abstract, philosophical concept with no concrete connection to the actual president.
Speaking as a young Democrat unsatisfied with the current state of my country, I find it hard to believe that the answer to our prayers will come in the form of an establishment Democrat with an inconsistent background. We need someone who will unify the country, not just the party. I'm not saying that I think we should fight fire with fire. Trump's volatile temper is scary and, well, unpresidential. It seems dangerous. The thought of an authentic, collected, amenable leader that employs facts, not an agenda, to serve the people seems laughably naive in today's climate. Sure, the same could be said of many countries around the world today; I stopped checking BBC News because Europe is so depressingly broken. But whatever happened to good ol' American Exceptionalism? We are no exception. At least, not right now. We are a broken country, just like everywhere else.
The issues at hand - race relations, immigration, healthcare, education, climate change, and taxes to name a few - are incredibly divisive. The impact of the decisions of whoever we elect in 2020 will be felt by each and every American. Once the debate stage is a little less crowded, we must focus on policy. We must understand the interdependence of our society and vote with compassion - each region, each religion, each race brings its own experience and uniqueness to the table. This heterogeneity is the very fabric of America. There is too much diversity to vote myopically.
Differences in opinion will inevitably divide us, but let's remember the importance of what's at stake. One of the most unpopular presidents - if not the most - in American history could very well be reelected. We need to stop thinking in terms of "we" and "them" - "we" will win the election (meaning Democrats), "they" are ruining the country. Watch the debates, educate yourself, form coherent opinions and be able to justify them. Foster intelligent political discussions with respect and composure (I hate how nobody likes to talk about politics anymore in fear of getting flamed for having the "wrong opinion").
More than anything else, Americans need unity. The United States didn't seem so united in 2016, and frankly I haven't seen that change under Trump. That alone earns him my disdain. Let's come together in 2020 - we, the people - and get in touch with our roots.
