As the presidential race closes in and election day soon approaches, I have seen a steady increase in social media posts and shares, both for and against Donal Trump and Hillary Clinton. I think that a lot of negativity has come out of this election, enough to where people don't even want to vote at all, which is sad. Clearly, both candidates have their flaws, and everyone is voicing their own opinions and stances which I do not have a problem with. What I have an issue with is when opinions become attacks without facts to back them up.
Recently I read an article that was shared on my Facebook feed and it made me uncomfortable and upset: https://www.theodysseyonline.com/why-im-college-st…
The article addresses 10 reasons why the author is voting for trump and here are my retorts.
1. "Free college will never work" Why not?
The word "free" has been taken far out of context in this situation. Of course, nothing in this world is free. Our entire lives as humans revolve around money. But in regards to Hillary's plan/promise towards secondary education let's make things clear. She is not promising us that ALL schools will become free, she is endorsing 2-year community colleges and state colleges. This excludes all other private institutions, hoping to make it easier for students who want to pursue a secondary education and reduce the debt that current students will have to face in their future. As a college senior myself if there is any hope for this idea to become a reality I am all for it.
2. "The American Dream will stay alive" When did it die?
My fellow writer quoted James Truslow Adams in saying "Life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone with the opportunity for each according to ability or achievement, regardless of social class or race." My question here is, how can anyone trust a man who ridicules and blatantly disrespects people with disabilities, middle-class standing and those unlike himself so freely, making many feel unsafe and unprotected. Under such representation, it seems to me that the American Dream will feel less attainable to the majority of our United States of diverse individuals.
3. "He's very accomplished" No argument here!
Donald Trump is among the few that have made big names for themselves. He is a highly successful businessman and there is no arguing that, but what does that have to do with being the next president. Hillary Clinton is also a very accomplished person (let alone female): from a prominent member of the U.S. Senate, Secretary of State, and First Lady, Hillary has been successful and involved in the political word for a long time. Showing dedication and spreading promise to those in the areas she has impacted.
4. "Aren't you tired of politicians" Yes…but no
No system in this world is perfect, especially not our political system. People find ways around it every day. But to bring in someone with no experience, in dealing with the system and believe that they will know what to do within our own country and then interact with other countries seems foolish and risky. He doesn't know how things work, so why wouldn't you rather put someone in office who does?
5. "He's confident" So is Hillary
Let's not mistake Trump's arrogance for confidence.
6. "His immigration policy just makes sense" How does a wall make sense?
A wall is a very simple way to end a complex problem. Something that would cost billions of dollars is just not in the cards. Although there is no easy or appropriate way to change the existing situation without impacting the economy I do believe that it is unfair for those living in the U.S. to abuse the system. We need someone in office who can find a way to deal with this issue rather than ignore it.
7. "He's self-funded" He was.
As a billionaire yes, he was able to fund his own campaign, but as the election has gone on he has taken on outside funds. I find it hard to trust a candidate that refuses to divulge his tax return like all the rest.
8. "Hillary and Bernie just aren't the right people for the job" Neither is Trump.
The difference for me on Trump Vs Hillary is that she has set plans and has been specific on what she anticipates doing if elected into office, whereas Trump continues to tip toe around subjects and show very limp retorts, leaning towards low blows and insults to arouse his followers.
9. He'll balance the Supreme Court" But so would any candidate that was selected
The Republican party is loyal to its supporters with minds alike, as are the Democrats, so with the passing of Justice Antonin Scalia, the balance of Supreme Court is up for grabs for either side. If Hillary is elected it will lean more Democratically and if Trump is elected it will lean more Republican that's just the way it goes.
10. "Trump [he'll] make America great again" When was it ever truly great?
Women's suffrage, Jim Crow, The Great Depression, World War II, September 11th and more, our country has been filled with a lifetime of adversity. What makes us great is how we have progressed from these times and continue to do so. I believe that with the election of Trump our nation will do nothing but take steps backwards and fall into a time of racism, regression, and fear; when now more than ever recently we need a time of unity, progress, and courage.
As this is the first time that I am voting I am not thrilled with all the uproar, but what I am thrilled about is the fact that there is one candidate that I can trust will look out for the public as diverse citizens, rather than just the 1%.
