What We Should Remember On Election Day | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics

What We Should Remember On Election Day

The aftermath of November 8 is just as crucial as the campaigns before it.

9
What We Should Remember On Election Day
Fox

Election Day — the day that scares Americans more than any else — is upon us. Soon, we will have a new name to call “President” for the next four years. No matter if you are a Republican or a Democrat (or neither), conservative or liberal, no matter where you have cast your vote, or if you have at all, we all realize that much is at cost in this election. The 2016 U.S. Presidential Election has polarized our nation. Votes have been cast as much because of hatred for one candidate as because of support for the other.

So when the United States receives a new president this week, the crazy name-calling, scandal-revealing season of politics may not be over. The LA Times reports a survey of voters in California: vast majorities of both Clinton and Trump supporters want Congress to act as a check on the president if the candidate of their choice is not elected. The Washington Post predicts a tight race, and no matter which candidate wins, the close margin may cause either side to legally contest the outcome.

In other words, even when the election ends, the names of Trump and Hillary will still be all over the media, and the aftermath of November 8 may be just as divisive as the campaigns leading up to it. Even if the candidate you support wins, don’t think that the United States can relax back into its stupor.

This election has shone a flashlight into the dark corners and cobwebs of our country. Neither candidate will sweep up the mess we find ourselves in. It is for us to pick up the broom and dustpan.

So in the days and months and years following November 8, let’s remember that we bear as much responsibility for the United States as the person sitting in the Oval Office. Here are three things to remember:

1. We need to forgive our institutions and reform them, but getting rid of them altogether is just a glorified form of anarchy.

2. We need to value what is good over what is efficient. Vote according to your moral convictions. Let’s not find ourselves in a scenario again where one candidate is a misogynist and the other involved in governmental scandal.

3. We need to listen. Let’s not forget the importance of empathy, of giving space to other people’s concerns and pains. We all have our own perspectives and agendas, but unless we can approach politics with humility, knowing that our salvation is not found in it, we will continue to talk over each other and war against those we should love.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

4346
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

2216
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

1667
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

1559
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments