I’m the quintessential worrier, so it’s no surprise that I’m nervous about this election when the very foundation of our democracy is at stake. I don’t think this election is a typical one. It’s not the typical conflict of Democrat versus Republican, in which the other candidate’s platform may be not quite resonate with you, but the candidate is still a qualified, intelligent politician who just happens to differ ideologically. This election is much more than that; it presents a decision for the American people between tolerance and intolerance. To quote Barack Obama, “Tomorrow, you will choose whether we continue this journey of progress, or whether it all goes out the window. Tomorrow, you get to choose between a politics of blame and divisiveness and resentment, or you can choose a politics that says we’re all stronger together.” I truly believe that America’s journey of progress has been underway since the founding of this country, and every step we’ve taken towards equality and justice in our society since then is at stake if Donald Trump is our president.
Instead of going on a thousand-word rant, I decided nothing could better describe my many emotions than, of course, a trusty listicle ;). So with one day left of this wild, crazy, insane, ridiculous, exhausting, absurd election left, here’s how I’m feeling.
1. When Obama comes to Ann Arbor on his last day of campaigning for Hillary but you can’t go because you have a test while he’s speaking.
I really have no words. Don’t think I’ll ever be over it. I love you POTUS.
2. When people still think the Hillary behind bars/Hillary is a criminal joke is funny but in reality, it just shows a remarkable ignorance for how this nation works.
Above is one of many of my election-related Facebook posts from yesterday. I just don’t understand why people feel that they’re in a place to make this determination. Why do you think you are better equipped to decide conduct investigations and decide who is criminal than the F.B.I. and Department of Justice?! It seriously just blows my mind.
3. When Hillary’s campaign comes out with what can effectively be described as a bat mitzvah/sweet 16 video montage of her campaign, and it literally brings you to tears.
Serious kudos to whoever made this video, because this is a truly beautiful work of art. I would play this at my funeral.
4. When you think about the fact that you live in a swing state but can’t vote.
Can someone give me their vote? Is that allowed? Please?
5. When you think about all the intolerance, discrimination, and racism that Trump has brought to the forefront of America and it just makes you sad.
Take a minute of your life to watch this video of De Niro talking about Trump (aka his incredibly scathing condemnation). While you’re at it, watch the whole Vote Your Future campaign video! I'm a fan.
6. When you’re waiting in suspense to see what Trump does if he loses.
Donald, you promised a show. We’ve all been waiting to see how you deliver! Democracy, or not? Stay tuned!
7. When you think about watching the results come in Tuesday night.
I don’t think I’m prepared for the level of nerves I’m about to experience.
8. When you think about the possibility of Hillary losing.
I just want to reiterate – this is not a matter of Democrat versus Republican. I fully tolerate and respect all political views, but this is not about political views. This is about Donald Trump being racist, sexist, xenophobic, and homophobic, a misogynist, liar, and fearmonger. He empowers people who believe in discrimination of all kinds and puts them at the front of American politics and society, and I will not respect or simply ignore intolerance or discrimination. And that is why a Clinton loss would be, in my opinion, devastating.
9. When you think about the possibility of Hillary winning.
My heart is already racing but I really don't want to jinx anything so I'm using every fiber of my being trying to remain calm right now.
10. When you think about a Hillary Clinton administration, and how much progress could be made in our country under her leadership.
Starting to tear up just a little bit.
So tomorrow, no matter why it’s important to you, or even if it’s not, make sure you go out and VOTE!
Happy voting!!!