Coming into the 2020 presidential election plenty of predictions were made. For instance the red mirage, the blue wave, an extended window for tallying votes and a landslide victory was claimed on both sides.
Well, we are four days removed from Election Day and no winner has been declared. This however, has not kept both sides from claiming certain victory for their party. We have been divided as a country long before now and this election at the minimum brings that fact to the forefront. People on both sides are standing firmly by their man while questioning the reasoning of anyone whom would vote otherwise.
It is something worth pondering. What (not who) people voted for that is. Also, that question is rhetorical of course. It has been openly stated by supporters on the left and right that although they weren’t necessarily voting for the actual person they voted for, they were compelled to vote. Some had high interest in their candidate’s stance on an issue, or potential to move a particular agenda forward. Some voted only to block the other guy’s agenda.
An interviewee on MSNBC Thursday morning said he cast his vote against misogyny, homophobia, and racism. Further still it has been said that historically dominant groups fearing change voted in hopes of protecting the racial caste system which has long been the foundation of the United States. Whatever their reasons, Americans voted in record numbers during this 2020 election.
Now, we wait. We’re watching a political battle unfold on a national platform. With so many possible outcomes, it isn’t time to be confident in a winner. As citizens we hope for a fair and accurate outcome. We also reflect on what we voted for and why. This election is bigger than President Donald Trump or former Vice President Joe Biden.
Beyond showing up for the presidential election, there is work yet to do. Work closer to home, in our homes, cities, counties, and states. We have a responsibility to continue equipping ourselves with knowledge regarding the needs of the community with live in. We have a responsibility to communicate with our elected officials as a means of holding them accountable to their campaign promises. We have a responsibility to future generations.
While you wait use sites like https://whoismyrepresentative.com/ to find your state officials whom often have online platforms to follow. Attend local public forums, listen in and speak up. Let your 2020 vote be just the beginning of your civic engagement.
May the best man win.
A native of Phoenix, Arizona Aundrea Sayrie is a firm believer in the power of words, faith and a strong spirit. Her greatest desire is to encourage those around her to discover and honor their truth, and to passionately live on purpose.
Any views or opinions expressed in “Living on Purpose” are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Watershed Voice staff or its board of directors.
