What Comes Next?

For those who share my concerns, the recent election feels nothing short of devastating. My country has chosen to elevate a figure whose past aides have described as a felon, a fascist, and, alarmingly, “the most dangerous person to this country.” In an election that was far from close, voters not only endorsed him but also solidified a Republican-controlled Senate to further empower his agenda. This moment serves as a critical test for our nation and for each of us individually. In light of this, I offer a manifesto outlining how ordinary Americans like myself can respond effectively.

• 1. I acknowledge Donald Trump’s victory. To stand against Trump, we must first resist the urge to mimic his tactics. We have lost. We were outvoted. In a democracy, the majority’s voice prevails, and we were not part of that majority this time. Yes, this presents a paradox: a democratic election has elevated someone actively undermining democratic principles. Nevertheless, our primary responsibility remains to respect the choice made by the voters.
• 2. I will be a vigilant watchdog, not a submissive lap dog. Accepting Trump as the president-elect does not equate to capitulating to authoritarianism. I commit to being particularly observant regarding any attempts to weaponize the legal system against Trump’s critics. Furthermore, I will support the vital institutions that uphold our democracy, such as the judiciary, journalism, and the civil service. In fact, I might even hug a lawyer for good measure!
• 3. I will lend my support to organizations championing human values. Throughout Trump’s first term, the ACLU undertook remarkable efforts to combat family separations at the border, while Planned Parenthood worked tirelessly to safeguard access to reproductive health services. Numerous other organizations stepped up to provide assistance to those in need. It is imperative that we support these efforts.
• 4. I will subscribe to a reputable news organization. This may seem self-serving, and it’s true that those of us in journalism are not infallible. However, it remains essential that we recognize the role of journalism in holding public officials accountable. As oversight from news organizations becomes increasingly crucial—especially if Republicans gain control of both houses of Congress—I pledge to hold media outlets accountable for their role in scrutinizing Trump’s actions. We journalists must not merely observe a potential drift toward authoritarianism; we must actively champion the defense of democracy.