It seems that patriotism is at an all-time low, at least if you ask some people on the other side of the political aisle. A recent discussion on a conservative news channel brought forward the idea that Democrats are struggling to find pride in their own country. This isn’t just a hunch. When even foreign soccer fans appear to appreciate America’s exceptionalism more than some of its own politicians, it’s hard not to wonder what’s going on.
It’s a sad state of affairs when patriotism becomes such a divisive topic. It seems that for some, the mere mention of Donald Trump is enough to send them running in the opposite direction, faster than a soccer player running away from a red card. A few states have even opted out of participating in events, citing budget concerns but also fears of the slightest association with Trump’s perceived influence. This choice seems to reveal an irrational fear that any gathering where Americans might spontaneously burst into chants of patriotism would somehow be sullied by a ghostly Trump-shaped shadow.
The media has its share of the blame here too. As it’s pointed out, the media often acts as cheerleaders for the Democratic Party, while apparently holding a certain disdain for America itself. It’s a head-scratcher why these media folks, who likely haven’t lived outside the comforts of their metropolitan bubbles, aren’t showcasing the positive aspects of America. One could argue these foreign soccer fans have a better grasp of the beauty of American freedoms than those scribbling away in noisy newsrooms.
Meanwhile, within the Democratic Party, it seems to be every politico for themselves. Apparently, Democratic Representative Elissa Slotkin is eyeing the exits or at least the leadership shifts, urging for significant change and criticizing the old guard. She sees chaos in her party, likening it to a circular firing squad. It’s a bit like trying to organize a family reunion where everyone merely argues and no one agrees on who brings the potato salad. Slotkin might just be hinting that Democrats are in need of a new direction, but whether anyone will take the wheel remains a mystery.
Adding to the internal turbulence is the fact that primaries have shown stark divisions between moderates and the more socialist wing of the party. Democratic unity resembles less of a cohesive platform and more of a high-stakes political chess game. With election season soon upon us, the risks of a fractured Democratic Party spell trouble, leaving one to wonder if this is less a circus act and more like a full on demolition derby. As the Democrats teeter on the brink of a political pitfall, there’s a hint of anticipation on the other side, watching to see if they will eventually see the light or continue their spiral.
