What Should be the Ultimate Priority of the Next President?

Remember, let’s be polite; let’s be respectful, but most of all, let’s be outspoken.

We are entering an axis of darkness as the threat of climate change increases due to negligence, as our democratic institutions falter in the name of political party advancement, as bifurcation ensues, and as our shared ideals of equal protection under the law disintegrate. Whoever swears the presidential oath over the Bible next January must understand this nation cannot advance if there is such a great emphasis on the political party of a politician and not the unique merits of that individual.

The next president has to have a strong grasp on the importance of freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and press.

Especially in a conflicting time where protesting during a pandemic is questioned, the next president has to ensure the power to express our beliefs and thoughts.

Especially in a time where Christianity, Judaism, and Islam may be perceived as a threat to expected impartiality, the next president must understand the importance of the relationship between religion and the state, religion not dictating the actions of the government, and vice-versa.

Especially in a time where gatherings are condemned, the next president must understand peaceful marches and demonstrations are the catalysts for social change.

Especially in a time where the press is promulgating preconceived notions and false narratives, the next president must not use force to cram down on opposing views.

In truth, the usurpation of individual liberty is an essential step when viciously assaulting the institutions of a democratic republic to create a totalitarian state. No matter the party, political leaning, economic beliefs, or religion of the next president, he must have a strict adherence to the Constitution and what it represents. He must follow the amendments explicitly described and understand the intentions behind that amendment.

With the powers of the presidency, he must be a figure of unification. He must not sow the seeds of division for political gain, he must not fuel the fires of partisanship for power, and he must not embody the evils rooted out of Europe some eight decades ago. In reality, the reason I speak in vague terms is that this principle should encompass the response to impending issues.

This nation has prospered for the past two and a half centuries because we unified under a common history, a shared culture, and a collective wish of a better society for not just us but for generations to come.

I fear we are losing that commonality, losing the idea of being a singular nation. The next president must identify what unifies us, and not exploit what divides us. He must understand the true essence of our national identity.

Remember, let’s be polite; let’s be respectful, but most of all, let’s be outspoken.