The night we have all anticipated has come.
The Presidential debate came in all of its glory, and it was just as entertaining as everyone thought it would be. The two candidates for the two major political parties did not disappoint.Republican Party candidate, Donald Trump, was his usual self. Flinging accusations at his opponent. Painting the country as being in its darkest hours. Having an all out tantrum regarding the media. You know. The usual. Hillary Clinton, the Democratic party candidate, deflected the accusations and appeared to be much more poised. However, that is to be expected. Not because Trump isn’t smart, but because Hillary is wise to the game. She’s been in politics for years on end. Thus, she knows the buzz words that will ring with certain groups.
Republican Party candidate, Donald Trump, was his usual self. Flinging accusations at his opponent. Painting the country as being in its darkest hours. Having an all out tantrum regarding the media (Call Sean Hannity and ask him.Go ahead. Ask him!). You know. The usual. Hillary Clinton, the Democratic party candidate, deflected the accusations and appeared to be much more poised. However, that is to be expected. Not because Trump isn’t smart, but because Hillary is wise to the game. She’s been in politics for years on end. Thus, she knows the buzz words that will ring with certain groups.
Hillary “owned up” to the emails as a mistake that she made. I necessarily believe that, but okay. Trump provided some absolute gems. Apparently, he’s a really good judge of character (better than Hillary, of course), and his strongest asset is his temperament.
After I finished laughing, I realized something.
This presidential debate is no laughing matter at all.
These are the two options we have. Someone who can’t see their temperament is worse than a toddler, and the consummate politician (Fine… liar). Yes, Gary Johnson and Jill Stein are running for President. Truthfully, my desire would be to have the independent parties up there debating with the two major parties. That being said, the problem with independent parties is too many people are locked into a two-party system. They see voting for an independent as a wasted vote. The problem with that line of thinking is all any candidate needs is support of the people. Recognizing electoral college will ultimately decide the next President of the United States, people have a voice. If they postured enough support for a third party, then they could have a chance at winning.
Tonight, I didn’t hear my country being given a chance. There was no policy discussion. No conversation on how the gap can be bridged between community and police (The mere suggestion of stop and frisk was enough to end that conversation). No real addressing of foreign issues outside of Hillary. Even at that, it’s easier for her to speak from an experienced position, and it was the same usual rhetoric. Tonight’s debate was exactly what American thought it would be. Entertainment.
And that’s going to be our downfall.
Too many Americans would rather be entertained. We will sit on our phones. In front of our TVs. On our computers and tablets. Searching for the next thing to keep us occupied. And this is where it has landed us. Our Presidential Election is the reality TV show we have all secretly craved, but won’t admit to watching.
If there’s anything I’ve learned from this election. If there’s any more affirmation that I need, it’s that we need to lean on Jesus.
More now than ever before.
[Gif Credit Giphy]
A Fresh Voice 