After the recent election, I found myself in many private discussions with various groups to explore why the American electoral map became noticeably redder than before, even amid a wave of high- profile endorsements for the other side. Here, I’ve summarized my perspective. Regardless of your views, I invite you to consider these insights with an open mind.
Borders and Security: Order Matters – EVEN HEAVEN HAS GATES:
One major issue that resonated with many was the perceived rise in undocumented immigration under the Biden-Harris administration. Many were concerned about the apparent lack of control at the southern border, feeling that it wasn’t fair to allow unchecked entry when legal immigrants go through extensive scrutiny and high fees to enter the country. Even a former border officer, himself an immigrant from Mexico, expressed concern over what he saw as excessive leniency. Not even Heaven has such freedom where everyone is expected to just walk in so easily. Heaven has order and measures to take to get in [if you believe in Heaven in the first place], and so why should it be that easy at the southern border.
The strain on local resources added to frustrations. In some states, hospitals are reportedly stretched, with undocumented immigrants receiving full care, while some citizens and legal residents struggle to qualify for basic healthcare assistance. Many feel this isn’t about denying help to those in need, but rather about the fairness and sustainability of the system, especially when budget cuts are required to accommodate increasing demands. Just answer this question; will you allow anyone to enter your house to take over your master bedroom and kick out your children from their rooms to suffer for strangers? The best is to create a space for the stranger(s) to live with you but not walk over your own, else you’re a hypocrite. Another example: imagine you’re in a line waiting for the bus or train for hours, only to see a number of people crossing to be in front of you by cutting the line, how would you feel? Yes, they are not denied in joining the train or bus, but they should join the line behind – simple.
The principle is simple: we help others, but not at the expense of our own families and communities. People are frustrated, feeling that citizens and legal residents are expected to make sacrifices while the system becomes more strained.
The Economy vs. Social Issues – A Missed Focus:
On the Democratic side, there was a heavy focus on social issues like abortion, which likely didn’t resonate as strongly with voters prioritizing economic stability. While I support pro-life with exceptions for medical reasons, I noticed that Democrats seemed overly focused on advocating for abortion rights. Many felt this approach alienated voters, particularly those with religious values, as it seemed to encourage the government to fund what some view as personal choices without clear distinctions between cases. The lack of clarity, some felt, opened the door to concerns about accountability and societal values.
For many voters, economic issues—such as inflation, housing costs, and rising interest rates—were a higher priority. Trump’s messaging on the economy clearly connected with those feeling the squeeze, leading to a decisive advantage.
The Silent Trump Supporter and Future Outlook:
The strength of Trump’s base is often underestimated because many of his supporters remain quiet, wary of public backlash and name-calling. This is partly why his victories, both in 2016 and 2024, surprised many. Though Trump can be unscripted and controversial, his policies resonate with people whose frustrations run deeper than media narratives often capture.
Moving forward, Democrats may need to look inward and refine their brand. This isn’t about completely abandoning old ideas but rather evolving the message to address the issues that truly affect voters today. By incorporating fresh voices and priorities, they might build a more effective and resonant strategy.
In Summary:
It’s become apparent that the Democrats may need to update their approach by Refreshing Strategies and Listening to New Voices. Relying on traditional or old playbooks and voices without seeking fresh perspectives risks losing touch with an evolving electorate. There’s a place for the wisdom of past advisors, but mixing in new voices could create a more dynamic approach that resonates more broadly.
Another important factor is the growing concern among parents about education and parental rights. Many feel that schools should focus on preparing students for professional success rather than instilling values that may clash with those taught at home. Parents want to guide their own children’s moral and ethical development rather than feel sidelined by institutional policies.
Ultimately, Harris’s campaign may have had momentum and more celebrity backing, but Trump’s focus on tangible issues like rent, mortgage rates, and interest costs resonated with voters who feel these pressures daily. A successful campaign speaks directly to the issues that people face, and Trump’s approach appeared to do that effectively in this election. A soul checking to come out with solutions that matter to the electorate should be the new focus for the democrats – it calls for a recreation of a new brand.
Thank you for considering these reflections.
#GhanaPolls2024
#ElectionBureau
#CitiVerify
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital