By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Despite predictions that Donald Trump would only harm others, his victory reveals that a majority of American voters were drawn to his divisive rhetoric and promises of social revenge. The author argues that policy proposals were not the deciding factor, as Trump voters prioritized his appeals to their grievances and resentments, particularly against elites and minorities. The author warns that Trump’s victory signals a potential slide towards authoritarianism, with Trump’s focus on consolidating power and undermining democratic institutions. The author emphasizes that Trump’s supporters, who believe he will only harm others, are likely to face the consequences of their choices, just as they did in his first term.
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The recent election has sparked a wave of anxiety and dread among many, particularly those who opposed the winning candidate. While some see this as a time for cautious optimism and a chance for the new administration to prove its promises, others feel a deep sense of foreboding. Many fear that the consequences of this election will disproportionately impact those who did not vote for the winner, especially marginalized groups.
A common sentiment is that those who voted for the winner, fueled by anger and a sense of grievance, may be in for a rude awakening. The prevailing view is that they have been fooled by a charismatic figure who promises to solve their problems, often at the expense of others. The fear is that they have bought into a simplistic narrative of scapegoating and blame, ignoring the complexity of the issues they face.
The concern is that the winner, known for his divisive rhetoric and policies, will not deliver on his promises of economic prosperity and social change. Instead, he will continue his relentless assault on vulnerable communities, targeting minorities, immigrants, and women. The consequences of this could be far-reaching, potentially leading to increased economic hardship, social unrest, and a further erosion of democratic values.
The worry is that those who voted for the winner will not be able to recognize the harm he is causing because they have been conditioned to believe that any negative consequences are the fault of others. They are being fed a constant stream of misinformation that reinforces their biases and prevents them from seeing the truth. They are being manipulated by a skillful master of propaganda, who knows how to exploit their fears and prejudices.
It is particularly alarming to see how easily this manipulation has taken hold among a segment of the population who claims to be “patriots.” They are being convinced that the winner is the only one who can “make America great again,” even as he actively undermines the very foundations of American democracy. They are clinging to an idealized vision of the past, oblivious to the damage he is inflicting on their present and future.
This is not just a political issue. It is a cultural and moral crisis, a crisis of trust and empathy. The consequences of this election will be felt far beyond the political sphere. They will affect our families, our communities, and our nation’s standing in the world.
The hope is that some of those who voted for the winner will eventually see the truth, that they will come to understand the harm they are complicit in. However, many fear that this may be a long and painful process, and that the damage he will do in the meantime will be irreversible. There is a sense of resignation, a feeling that we are all being dragged down a dangerous path, and that we may not be able to stop it.
The path forward is uncertain. It is clear that we are entering a period of great turmoil and division, a period that will test the very fabric of our society. We must be vigilant, we must speak out against injustice, and we must hold those in power accountable. The future of our nation hangs in the balance.