This election has been one of the most stressful and memorable in United States history. There has been no shortage of articles, Facebook posts, and tweets about how awful either candidate is or how upset everyone is that these are our two choices. This is not going to be one of those articles. As I am writing this, we are only 36 hours away from electing a new president, and I am tired of being stressed and terrified about who it will be. I don’t want to read any more articles or check any more polls. I am ready to accept whatever comes. I am ready to present a different perspective.
I am so incredibly proud of the citizens of this country.
To be honest, I never thought I would say that in relation to this election, especially considering how plain rude and awful we’ve all been to each other. I don’t expect you to agree with me, but hear me out. I am proud because this is what democracy looks like! This has been over a year of almost every citizen being engaged in what, or rather who, is best for this country. Keep in mind, this is a country that ranks very low in voter turnout: 31st out of 35 countries, according to Pew Research Center. So to see so many people getting involved is great progress for this country.
I am sure many Clinton supporters are wondering how I could be proud of a country that has nominated a man like Donald Trump. My pride has nothing to do with Trump himself, but what he represents. For many Trump supporters, he represents change from the status quo. He represents citizens that are tired of not being heard, citizens that are telling politicians that they will not be ignored. Although I am disappointed that a man like Donald Trump was chosen for that role, I think we need more of that in our politics. Too often we as Americans are docile and obedient when it comes to politics: we just accept issues as just being “the way it is.” I am proud to see a change.
Lastly, as a woman, I am proud to see that our country has chosen a female candidate. Regardless of your opinion on Hillary Clinton as a person, this is a historical milestone for this country, and I am so proud.
This election is only one day away and, in case you haven’t heard it enough, IT IS VITAL THAT YOU VOTE! Vote for who you believe is the best for this country and all its citizens. Vote for who is best for you. And regardless of who wins, be proud of yourself, and this country, for making your voice heard.