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Politics and Activism

You Ruined American Politics for Me

I once loved talking about the topic. Now? I almost hate it.

John Lof

May 24, 2017

Luther College

John Lof

The family members who support Donald Trump. You ruined American politics for me. Those of you who share Facebook posts from pages like "Rowdy Republicans" with a headline, 'If only the media had been as bothered with Obama's ties to the Muslim Brotherhood...' You ruined politics for me. Those that share posts that have unsubstantial evidence, and cite sources like "Conservative Times." Those that think "Killary" should be locked up for treason. Those who really do believe that the Republican cares about you. Those who think that simply working hard will lift you out of poverty, or the lazy shouldn't benefit from the labors of others. Those of you who justify all of this in the name of God. You ruined politics for me.

I used to eat this up. Last year's caucus cycle, I saw everyone. You name the candidate, I probably saw them. Carly Fiorina to Hillary Clinton. I still keep the business card of Mike Huckabee's campaign manager in my wallet. I saw President Obama speak the night before the 2012 election. I knocked on doors, made calls. I don't like talking about any of this anymore.

Being demonized as a socialist freeloader really takes the wind out of the sails. Yes I identify as a Democrat, and a fairly progressive one at that. That Bible you use to justify your "sanctity of marriage," is the same one I use for inspiration for my principles. The Gospel is love. Nothing more, nothing less. Associate Conference Minister of the Iowa Conference of the United Church of Christ taught me this, and may have picked it up from somewhere else. Love all Children as your own. Love all creation as your home. Love your neighbor as yourself. However, it's not just those on the opposing side of my views who have dampened my passion.

Those who trivialize our government. You ruined American politics for me. Those who shook your head and sighed every time you heard some who you oppose make a simple and honest mistake. You ruined American politics for me. Those who take to twitter with a strong crucial opinion, but all you do is mock those who differ with you. You ruined politics for me.

I have the biggest gripe with those who are only around when it's convenient, or as cliché as it sounds, popular. The woman's march was a fantastic event, but where were you the weeks before the election knocking on doors? Hell, where are you afterwards? Where are you at the organizing meetings? Your responsibility for civic engagement never decreases. You ruined American politics for me.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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