2020-11-04

2020-11-04

November 4th, 2020

One day after the election.

A friend checked in from Germany, asking: "What's the mood?" Trying not to channel all the PTSD from post-election morning 2016 and the turmoil and stress of the last four years into a quick message clumsily thumbed into WhatsApp, I replied:

Depressed and angry, because about half of the country looked at the last four years and said "yep, that's what we need more of, please."[1]

Disappointed, because the Democrats were unable to flip the Senate, meaning even if Biden wins, he won't be able to get anything done as Republicans will oppose and sabotage him every step of the way.[2]

Cautiously hopeful, as both Michigan and Winsconsin had just been called for Biden, and it looks like we actually have a chance of escaping a rapid descent into authoriatarianism after all.

But most of all: stressed, tired, exhausted. Living in a failing Democracy teetering on the brink of destruction for four years when not a day went by that I did not recoil in anger, shock, resignation, or cynicism wears you out and steadily chips away at any optimism you may have.

Some is still left, however. The worst may yet be averted, even if I expect a dirty, bitter fight even after Biden (🤞) clinches the required electoral votes.

But the fact that it's this close remains a damning verdict of the American people and will (rightfully) permanently stain the country's reputation.

November 4th, 2020