Why One of the Most Historic American Elections is Portrayed as a Joke
by Kayla Jennings Rivera
I believe it is safe to say that this election is the most passionate one we’ve ever seen. People are truly fighting for their candidate, and the lines between Democrats and Republicans are being crossed as people re-evaluate who, and what, they are supporting.
There are two very controversial people running for the office of the next President of the United States, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Unfortunately, it seems like the media is focusing more on their relationship with each other and manipulating them rather than showcasing what they stand for and what they will do for America. Of course, the media will take its run at bragging people down but we are talking about the next POTUS, and this is no joking matter.
Regardless of the significant consequences of the 2016 election, I’ve seen countless numbers of memes, jokes, etc. online, poking fun of the candidates. If we can’t take the candidates for presidency seriously now, can we ever? Instead of these memes, the media should be focusing on how each candidate plans to help America grow – we should be spreading these messages rather than the memes. We have to develop a sense of respect, although our views may be different, for each candidate, because they truly could be the next POTUS. We are still Americans and our lives will be directly affected by whoever wins this election.
In the next few years, progressive Americans want to see gun control laws established, women’s rights to be fair, and America embracing the diversity of all those who are American. In addition, all Americans want to see a stronger economy, a lower unemployment rate, and an end of terrorism on a global scale. These aren’t minor issues – these are major and revolutionary steps that can change the course of America’s future.
America is going through too many important issues to not care about the presidential election. If you can vote, you should. Even as someone who rarely follows politics, I find myself passionately fighting for those able to vote to think about the impact they can have on our future.
Personally, I did not grow up in a household heavily involved in politics. Partially because I wasn’t old enough to vote, I didn’t follow an election prior to this one. At first, I didn’t want to be involved in the 2016 election because I wasn’t sure where my views aligned, and I trusted that America will choose the most fitting candidate naturally. However, from all the buzz about the election, I have no choice but to care about it. Especially since , there has been more attention on the memes rather than the issues each candidate plans to bring attention to which will dictate who we vote for. I have become passionately involved and eager to learn more about each candidate and the potential they have to change America – for the better. Because I can’t make a decision for based off of which meme was funnier, no one can.
I am currently studying abroad for the summer and can say that the election is being talked about on a daily basis around the world. As soon as the locals find out I am American, they ask me how I feel about the election, and then follow up with their own opinions; proving this isn’t just about America, this is about what we can do now to shape history for the world.
I encourage each and every person to align their beliefs with a presidential candidate and to vote in this election. There are many resources that can help you research your views. Don’t trust that those around you believe in the same things; if you want to see something happen, go out and make a difference, do not wait for others. Furthermore, I encourage you to stand up for your beliefs and disregard any form of media that talks about the candidates in a degrading way. You can’t trust the media because there is always a viewpoint behind it; you need to form your own, unbiased and pure opinion. Stay educated and passionate about this election because your voice is more important than you may think.