The 2024 election outcome marked a personal breaking point for me.
The return of a felon, rapist, and racist (among many other labels) assuming the highest office in the world again – someone who incited a violent attack on our democracy – has forced me to confront the harsh reality of what’s at stake for our country.
America stands at a precarious crossroads. Understanding how we got here is just as important as figuring out how we move forward.
For starters, it’s clear that Trumpism – a political movement defined by right-wing populism, authoritarianism, and a blatant disregard for democratic norms – is no longer a fringe ideology. It’s now the defining force of the Republican Party and it’s undoubtedly reshaping American politics.
Since 2016, Trump’s extremist views and unhinged rhetoric, which has drawn alarming comparisons to autocratic leaders and dictators, has set a dangerous precedent.
The condonation of sexism, racism, and xenophobia is unacceptable in a civilized society and even more so coming directly from a President. Trump’s leadership style, steeped in faux machismo, is a misguided representation of strength, appealing to those who mistake belligerence for true authority.
While 77 million Americans voted for Trump, many were misled by a deluge of disinformation on the economy, immigration, and crime that defined the 2024 election narrative. The media’s hesitancy to challenge his lies and downplay falsehoods further compounds the crisis.
In my essay, The Mourning After: Facing the Fallout of Election 2024, I argue that right-wing disinformation, Trump’s cult of personality, and widespread voter apathy decided our nation’s fate. Indeed, nearly 90 million Americans didn’t vote in the 2024 presidential election – more than the number of people who cast their ballots for Trump or Harris.
In his farewell address, President Joe Biden warned of an oligarchy taking shape in America – a dangerous convergence of “extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy.”
The warning isn’t hypothetical. The world’s three wealthiest men – Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg – own the most influential communications platforms where most Americans receive and engage with news and politics.
At Trump’s inauguration, these billionaires were seated in the first row, a stark symbol of their growing influence and the dynamic they’ve cultivated that transcends business alliances. With a combined wealth of nearly $1 trillion, they hold unprecedented sway over our political landscape.
When Musk acquired Twitter (now X) under the guise of protecting free speech, experts say he singlehandedly transformed the social media platform into the epicenter of US election misinformation.
After Trump publicly threatened Zuckerberg with life in prison for earlier criticisms, Meta announced it would eliminate fact-checking and has since loosened restrictions on hate speech, aligning its policies with Trump’s agenda.
Meanwhile, Bezos, owner of The Washington Post, blocked the newspaper’s endorsement of Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris – a break from decades of tradition. This decision, seemingly aimed at appeasing Trump, led to multiple resignations of prominent journalists. Hundreds of staff members also sounded the alarm over the paper’s direction, citing the threat to a free press.
Other news outlets have similarly caved to Trump’s demands. Last month, ABC agreed to pay $15 million to his presidential library to settle a winnable defamation lawsuit. Since then, Trump has threatened even more lawsuits against the press.
Backed by these media magnates, it appears Trump will control the U.S. media landscape, amplifying his narrative and entrenching his influence further.
Additionally, Trump has also assembled America’s ‘richest cabinet’, packed with billionaires and multimillionaires. This consolidation of wealth and power underscores a systemic shift, where the interests of the elite take precedence over the needs of everyday Americans. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, for example, has called extending tax cuts for the rich “the single most important economic issue of the day.”
It’s striking that the Democratic Party is often labeled as the party of the elites while the Republican Party brazenly aligns with oligarchs and the world’s richest man funds Trump’s political rise.
Under President Biden’s leadership, we witnessed monumental progress: the most historically diverse cabinet, new factories and infrastructure projects, strengthening unions, student debt relief, LGBTQ+ protections, environmental and climate justice, and most recently, declaring the Equal Rights Amendment “the law of the land.”
Yet, despite these advancements, Trump’s deceptive rhetoric and populist facade continue to manipulate millions, undermining the very progress that they stand to benefit from.
Before the inauguration, Trump, in partnership with TikTok CEO Shou Chew, took credit for reviving the popular app. Trump went from backing a ban to being hailed a savior. With 15 million followers, he credits TikTok with helping him win over young voters. Experts warn that the Chinese-owned platform could be used to promote pro-Trump content, further skewing public perception.
Faced with an administration steeped in corruption and power consolidation, the fight ahead feels insurmountable. But I believe there are steps we can – and must – take to resist Trumpism and get our country back on track.
If Facts Are Becoming Optional, The Truth Must Be Loud
A free press is a foundational pillar of democracy – a vital mechanism for holding power accountable, ensuring transparency, and equipping the public with information to make educated decisions. To uphold these principles, it must operate responsibly and ethically. That’s why partisan media, along with control of our communications by a select few, poses such a grave threat.
Today, it’s increasingly difficult to discern news from noise as irresponsible journalism threatens our democracy, alongside platforms that spread conspiracy theories. To counter this, we must actively seek out the truth, support those who uncover it, and call out disinformation wherever it spreads.
We can start by getting our news from independent media and reputable nonprofit outlets like AP News and NPR, or following trusted journalists who prioritize facts over sensationalism. Watchdog organizations like ProPublica expose corruption through investigative reporting, while the Brennan Center for Justice takes on critical issues like voting rights and campaign finance reform.
For deeper insight into current events, historian Heather Cox Richardson offers a free daily newsletter, Letters from an American, providing historical context for today’s politics. Because we live in an interconnected world, understanding global perspectives is essential. International news outlets like the BBC and Reuters offer nuanced takes on America’s role in the world, allowing us to better contextualize the challenges we face.
Closer to home, independent local journalism is equally important.
Outlets like RVA Mag, The Richmonder, Richmond Free Press, WRIR and others provide coverage that speaks directly to our communities, giving a voice to issues that impact our daily lives and ensuring that underrepresented perspectives, often overlooked by mainstream media, are heard.
By embracing truth, supporting ethical journalism, and amplifying diverse voices, we take the first critical step toward rebuilding trust, strengthening democracy, and resisting the spread of authoritarianism.
Getting exposed to diverse viewpoints creates more informed communities and in turn, fosters a more empowered world. In moving forward, it’s up to all of us to seek, share, and stand by the truth.
Take Action – Democracy Is Not A Spectator Sport
Voting is a privilege that allows us to have a voice in our future and yet 90 million Americans chose not to exercise that right in the last presidential election. More than those who support Trump, apathy at the ballot box is a profound betrayal of democracy.
While our political system is far from perfect, indifference only sets us back farther. Please do not be apathetic about voting. Show up for local, state, and national elections. Research candidates, understand how ballot measures impact our lives, and encourage others to do the same.
But voting alone is not enough. As we navigate a new era dominated by billionaires and corporations, the need for civic engagement has never been greater. For some, the concept of activism feels daunting or defiant. But at its core, it’s simply about taking action – any action – to advance the common good.
The best place to start is at the community level. Support organizations driving change; join canvassing or phone banking efforts, and contact your representatives to make your voice heard. Even sharing information about key issues on social media can help spark awareness and conversations.
In my opinion, there’s no wrong way to be an activist if your heart is in the right place and you’re always willing to learn.
Now, more than ever, local and regional organizations need our support – particularly those serving marginalized groups. In our community, nonprofits like Diversity Richmond (an LGBTQ+ resource hub); Girls For A Change (empowering Black girls); and ACLU Virginia (defending civil liberties) are leading vital work – but there are countless others.
Additionally, the art world deserves our backing amid the ongoing threats of defunding. Artists, dancers, and performers not only enrich our lives, but offer solace and inspiration, especially in challenging times. Nonprofits like Studio Two Three (an arts center for all); Brown Ballerinas for Change (promoting diversity through ballet); and Cadence Theatre (expanding perceptions) are just a few examples, among many, integral to nurturing our community.
Make no mistake, we will be feeling the consequences of the 2024 election for decades, just as we’re experiencing the lingering effects of unchecked Reaganomics, deregulation and corporate bailouts from over 40 years ago. Since that time, CEO pay has skyrocketed 1,322% and corporate profits have reached an all time high (Trading Economics), driving more than half of our current inflation (Groundwork Collaborative). Trump’s proposed tax cuts stand to benefit the highest income earners, worsening inequality.
Whether you’re 22 or 102, may this time serve as a reminder that every action – big or small – matters in building a democracy that works for all of us.
Corporate Greed Thrives On Our Choices – Spend Wisely
Our power as citizens isn’t limited to voting – it extends to how we spend our money.
Every purchase we make shapes the world around us. When we support corporations that exploit workers, dodge taxes, or undermine democracy, we contribute to the very problems that perpetuate our inequality and hinder our progress as a nation.
Spending with intention is a powerful way to make meaningful change. Instead of helping billionaire CEOs get richer, we need to invest in local businesses that align with our values, enrich our lives, and strengthen our communities.
Take Meta, which generates roughly $364 million a day from ad revenue (Statista). A significant drop in engagement – just one week with fewer ad clicks – could slash their weekly earnings by 10%, or a $255 million loss. By scaling back on social media use, we stop funding Mark Zuckerberg’s personal agenda – including his misguided push for more masculine energy in business.
Big Tech isn’t the only problem.
Since Trump’s election win, many corporations have fallen in line, donating millions to Trump’s inaugural fund including Uber, Toyota, and Pfizer. In doing so, they have aligned with his “Project 2025” agenda, a blueprint which aims to overhaul the federal government and erode constitutional freedoms like free speech and voting access.
Companies like Amazon, McDonald’s, and Walmart recently rolled back DEI programs undermining racial equity initiatives and LGBTQ+ policies. When we buy from these companies, we advance a conservative agenda that empowers the wealthy and does nothing to improve the lives of ordinary Americans, particularly the marginalized.
Check out this incomplete list of companies that donated to Trump and Project 2025 and decide if you really want to spend your dollars there.
The alternative is simple: support local – especially minority-owned businesses that build inclusive spaces and stronger economies, despite systemic barriers.
For over 20 years, I’ve happily boycotted popular chains like Starbucks for its unethical business practices and Chick-Fil-A for its long-standing anti-LGBTQ+ reputation. While avoiding corporations entirely isn’t always possible, being mindful of our spending choices ensures our money goes directly to helping people in our communities, instead of funding a CEO’s private jet or wakeboarding escapades.
Every day, we have the power to vote with our wallets, creating the community we want to live in.
Stop Normalizing The Trump Supporters In Your Life
Just as we should not normalize Trump, we must also stop giving a free pass to those who continue to support him and his beliefs.
I’m fortunate that my immediate family and in-laws share my values and consistently vote to uphold the ideals of democracy. But I also have extended family, childhood friends, and former role models, who have remained devoted to Trump since the beginning.
For years, I attempted to have discussions with them, sharing fact-based, reputable news articles, along with essays I’d written, and leading by example. But nothing I did made a difference – I couldn’t change their minds.
What I’ve come to realize is that these individuals are living in an alternate universe. They are not interested in pursuing the truth but instead, prefer to believe the lies spread by unreliable sources that reinforce what they already believe (whether it’s true or not). I’ve also learned that I am no match for the indoctrination of Fox News and Joe Rogan.
Rather than try to salvage what’s left of our relationship, I have slowly let these people go.
Honestly, it’s been a relief – a necessary step for my mental well-being. When Trump entered the political arena, it was no longer about politics, it was about principles – and it became extremely personal.
Everyone I know has Trump supporters in their life, but despite being repulsed by their unwavering loyalty to him, many struggle to dissolve the relationships. For me, staying connected to these individuals – no matter the familial bond or shared history – feels morally and fundamentally wrong.
While it may be difficult to cut ties with loved ones, maintaining these relationships comes at a heavy cost. When we avoid confronting Trump supporters for the sake of keeping the peace, we allow extremism to grow unchecked. Our silence condones their harmful beliefs which then spread, rippling out into our communities, our states, and ultimately, our nation.
In short, letting these people remain in our lives without consequence – even if it’s only during the holidays or for special occasions – is not an act of kindness; it’s complicity. This is a very tough truth to face. But treating these views as “just politics” minimizes the very real threat to freedom and democracy that Trump and his allies pose to this country.
If we’re serious about the world we’re leaving for future generations, we must have the courage to take a stand. After all, complacency will not move this country forward. But action and accountability will – particularly when we’re fighting for the right side of history.
Dissent is Patriotic and Joy Is An Act of Resistance
With Trump officially back in office and his executive actions signed, life feels increasingly uncertain and unsettling.
Like many, I’m exhausted from being part of The Resistance for nearly a decade. While staying engaged is essential, we also cannot allow Trump’s return to dominate every facet of our lives for the next four years. To avoid burnout, we must dissent in ways that preserve our mental health and well-being.
Amid rising hate, bigotry and dictatorship, joy can serve as a visible act of defiance.
Channeling our political grief into positive action is not only productive, but can be profoundly healing. We can fiercely love and protect our communities. We can show up for the vulnerable who need allies more than ever. We can reject apathy and choose to act with integrity, lifting others along the way.
In looking to other countries around the world for inspiration, I’m reminded that despite complex challenges and struggles, progress is always possible. In June 2024, Mexico elected its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum. In a sarcastic retort to Trump’s ‘Gulf of America’ comment, she stood in front of a global map and proposed that North America return to its original 17th century name.
“Why don’t we call it America Mexicana…” she said with a smile. “It sounds pretty, no?”
Perhaps we can take a cue from Sheinbaum and exude unbridled joy – especially in moments of absurdity, sadness, anger and despair. In doing so, we show the world – and ourselves – that our resilience is not only in enduring, but in thriving.
Looking Ahead Into The Unknown
I chose not to watch the inauguration. Instead, I spent time reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and reading about The King Philosophy of nonviolence, specifically the concept of The Beloved Community, a global vision where all people share in the earth’s wealth.
Later, I learned that as Trump and his billionaire administration carried on with the inauguration ceremony comfortably indoors, their supporters were left to brave frigid temperatures outside – an apt metaphor for the priorities of this administration.
Trump declared a new golden age for America in a speech that was “a mix of promises – and contradictions,” his usual empty rhetoric. But the real show-stopping moment was Elon Musk’s back-to-back fascist salutes. To reiterate, we must not normalize Trumpism.
After unfollowing all the social media accounts Mark Zuckerberg automatically opted me into (twice), including those of Trump, J.D. Vance, and the First Lady, I’ve logged off again.
Already, it’s been a lot.
My sincere hope is that we are not witnessing the end of our democracy, but rather, the beginning of a reckoning. No doubt, the stakes are high. But every day, we have the opportunity to create change through small acts of democracy.
By speaking the truth, calling out disinformation, building community, supporting local, resisting the normalization of Trumpism, and expressing dissent through joy, we can actively be the change we wish to see.
This year, along with the next four, is filled with uncertainty. I’m not sure where it will take us, but one thing I do know: self-preservation must be a priority for all of us.
May we find balance, protect our peace, and stand firm in our principles – because really, what other choice do we have?
