The race for the presidency is nearly over, and I couldn't be more relieved. With less than two weeks remaining, there are still new scandals releasing everyday, from both parties. We've heard about Clinton's private server, strife within both major parties, and witnessed Trump's xenophobia, sexism, and bigotry. In an election cycle that has been especially combative, its safe to assume that everyone's had enough of the constant media coverage. But, as the election winds down, I find myself asking what's next? What happens after the election?
After researching my question more thoroughly, I found that no one really knows what will happen after the election. There are simply too many variables in play. Customarily, following an election, there's a transition period, known as the 'lame duck' session, where the sitting president essentially loses influence, and then the inauguration; but with Trump's refusal to concede during the final debate and Clinton's possible indictment, it's unclear what will go down.
Whether or not we like the candidates, the truth is that on November 8, either Trump or Clinton will be declared president-elect. But because of this campaign season's combativeness, many people are concerned about the country's political climate and how this might affect future elections.
Lee H. Hamilton of The Wichita Eagle writes, "Lets start with the belief expressed by a lot of people – including some candidates – that the system is “rigged.” This is a perilous way to treat the country’s political system. It sows distrust in future election results, de-legitimizes winners, and undermines the government’s credibility."
This campaign has been difficult to watch and at times I've wondered if this is actually happening. Both candidates have failed to provide the American people with any substantial plans, but there's a lesson here. I believe that in the days leading up to election night, instead of attacking each other, the candidates should work on unifying their platforms for the next set of elected officials. The damage has been done, but it shouldn't negatively affect future elections.
I feel that this years campaign season, as disturbing as it's been, can be turned into a positive. Clearly, the country is divided; there have been threats of civil war and protest from both sides of the aisle, but issues that have been ignored are finally in the forefront. So, what happens after the election night is anyone's guess, but at least we know what we're up against.
