Why Should We Give Trump a Chance?
Given that Donald Trump has now secured the presidency through the Electoral College, many are considering whether we should embrace the new administration or wait for it to prove itself before giving it a chance. However, the opposition to a Trump presidency is not solely from the 'not my president' crowd but also rooted in a deep skepticism and a fear of what his presidency might mean for the country.
The Republican Blueprint vs. Obama's Legacy
The landscape of American politics has been polarized for years, with the Republican Party showing little interest in sustaining Obama's policies and instead opting to dismantle them, particularly healthcare provisions. Health care under Obama, known as Obamacare, was seen as a landmark achievement, providing access to healthcare for millions who would otherwise have been left out. However, the Republican agenda under President Bush veered towards military intervention in the Middle East, and President Obama's governance gradually shifted to a more cautious and withdrawal-focused stance. This reluctance to plan long-term and a lack of foresight led to an incomplete strategy in conflict management, resulting in an unwitting power vacuum that was filled by even more dangerous entities.
Trumponomics and Economic Recovery
President Trump has hinted at the need for government spending to spur economic growth. During his campaign, he often discussed the role of the Dow Jones Industrial Average as a key indicator of the economy. However, the market metrics often do not reflect the economic conditions of the average citizen. While the Dow peaked around 18,000 when Obama was elected, the job creation and economic conditions in many sectors have lagged, leading to concerns about the durability of the economic recovery. Many Trump supporters remain wary of the current economic situation, leading to a belief that the economy is in dire straits.
Obstructionist Congress and Democratic Skepticism
Even those who do not view themselves as part of the 'not my president' group are hesitant to give Trump a chance. Their skepticism is fueled by the belief that if America made a mistake in electing Trump, there might still be time to correct it with Hillary Clinton. This perspective often overlooks the impeachment proceedings and the divided Congress, which may obstruct any potential corrective measures.
Moreover, there is a significant distrust of the current political establishment, and many ordinary citizens see Trump and his cabinet as proponents of the "echo chamber" where plutocrats and Wall Street elites are prioritized over the needs of the average citizen. While President Obama has stated that some members of Congress are obstructionist and would never give him a chance, this sentiment has further fueled a resistance to Trump's policies.
A Paradigm Shift Is Necessary
To address these concerns and move forward, those who are skeptical of Trump must recognize that the next four years will not be Hillary-less. Whether Trump remains in office or not, the transition to a new administration will have significant implications. Mr. Trump's message to his team on election night—'We won’t be superstars unless we do a great job'—underscores the need for pragmatic and effective governance.
For Trump to earn the trust and support of his constituents, he must demonstrate that his policies are designed to benefit the average citizen, not just the financial elite. This can be achieved through concrete actions: infrastructure spending, tax relief for the middle class, and meaningful reform that addresses the concerns of those who felt left behind. Only through focused and inclusive leadership can he win over those who are still skeptical.
Ultimately, giving Trump a chance is not merely about electoral victory but about ensuring that the government's actions reflect the needs and desires of all Americans. The future of the nation depends on our collective ability to bridge divides and work towards a better future for all.