On November 6, 2024, at 5:03 a.m., Americans woke up to a harsh reality: Donald Trump was elected the president of the United States again. For many, it’s unreal: felons cannot vote but they can run for president. I believe this was a race driven more by personal motives rather than by policies.

Trump wanted to avoid jail, and Kamala Harris didn’t want a felon in the White House, so she stepped up to stop him. That’s why you didn’t see clear policies or plans made—they just went against each other. The outcome of the election was very much predictable, but not exactly expected. People didn’t listen, and maybe we didn’t want to believe it could happen.

The world is at its height of division, and America is no exception. Instead of unity or progress, this election has deepened the gaps between people, families, and communities. We need to stop pretending that we’re not a racist country. When the majority of Americans vote for a candidate with a record of racist statements, it reflects a deeper issue within our nation. We need to stop pretending that we are pro-women because when we vote for a misogynist felon, we are not. 

America, you woke up under another term of Trump’s presidency. We’re left wondering what’s next, as people all over the country (and the world) worry about their safety, their freedoms, and their futures. Some are even considering moving to Europe or Canada, hoping for a more stable place to call home.

Trump’s presidency brings tension from every angle. He’s faced two assassination attempts already, and some fear there could be more. He may have a great amount of supporters, but he’s also made a lot of enemies along the way, both at home and abroad. The country feels like it’s on edge, divided between those who support him and those who are ready to leave to avoid staying under his leadership.

The night after the election, a lot of people didn’t sleep, anxious about what this meant for their lives and their children’s futures. Americans, are you not restless? Democrats, are you not tired? This presidency might be the hardest test yet. I think the world will learn something from what we are about to experience. It’s time to ask ourselves if we can keep going like this, or if we need to demand something more—a true chance to move forward together, and not be torn apart. America deserves better. If we fight for our future, the people will win. If not this time, the next time.

Four years are not an eternity. We have time to prepare for freedom’s victory.