Now that the election is over, I see some silver linings, and have some observations a bit outside of the daily drumming of announcements and alarm bells. I recognize readers may disagree or have a different point of view.
Silver lining: From the moment he is sworn in, Trump is a lame duck. The term “lame duck” means not being able to keep up with the rest of the flock and becoming subject to predators. The term “lame duck” in politics means someone who is an outgoing officeholder. That is Trump. He has four years to do good for the country or damage it. But it is almost certain his influence on the politicians around him will wane since he is on a short string. (That string may be even shorter than four years due to his advanced age.)
Observation: There are lots of eager beaver MAGA or moderate Republicans whose goal is to be re-elected in 2026, and already there is talk of presidential aspirants for 2028. Thinking about their own futures will give these elected folks cause for pause when it comes to Trump’s more extreme policies.
Silver lining: Constitutionally, Elon Musk can’t run for President! He is not American by birth. He was born in South Africa into a wealthy pro-apartheid family.
Observation: Musk, the maniacal billionaire who pushes disinformation, is running a department that does not exist. DOGE, the unauthorized Department of Government Efficiency, intended to recommend how to trim $3 trillion from the federal government. Before even presenting recommendations, DOGE trimmed the grandiose $3 trillion to $500 billion (a half trillion). His initial suggestions, including eliminating the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, are designed to make him richer and subject to less regulation and to eliminate protections for you and me.
Silver lining: The new administration will get off to a slow start on the search and destroy mission. In fact, the mantra of the incoming administration could be: “We will get off to the slowest start ever! Thanks to our team’s refusal to sign the necessary documents that would give us access to the federal agencies we seek to destroy.”
Observation: The slow start will be good for the loyal opposition of Democrats and moderate Republicans who have not only the tools, but a responsibility to hold the president in check. The Senate has the responsibility to advise and consent when confirming appointments. Americans expect them to confirm law-abiding, competent leaders who will uphold the Constitution.
Silver lining for Trump: He is inheriting a strong economy, thanks to the Biden administration.
Observation: The bad news for Trump is his tariff proposals and deportation efforts are likely to upend the economy and raise prices on gas, food and everyday essentials.
Silver lining for Democrats: Despite losing at the federal level, there were lots of wins in races down ballot. In North Carolina, where Trump won by 1.5%, Democrats won all statewide offices and control of the Legislature. In two red states, Mississippi and Kentucky, moderate judges won in place of right-wing Republicans. And protecting abortion rights won in four out of six states.
Observation: Despite some analysts and activists blaming minorities for Harris’s loss, estimates show almost 55% of Latinos and 80% of Black voters voted for Harris. While the president-elect made gains among these groups, it was white voters, including 52% of white women, who gave Trump the votes he needed to win the election. And, as the popular vote continues to be counted, Trump and Harris are separated by 1.6% with both candidates below 50%. The country is split.
The ultimate silver lining: The election is over. Now voters will reap the benefits or the perils of their decision.
