By James Revels
Like so many important events that shaped our history, the Nov. 5 election will rank near the top, and the world is watching. How we recover will be determined by historians.
Having lived through much of our modern history, Nov. 5 is particularly disturbing because of our past history and racial progress.
Notwithstanding clear evidence of unfitness, a small vocal group managed to defy logic and common sense and propel the most unfit individual ever to the GOP presidential nomination. After that, it was only a matter of time before history would be made and a person who attempted to overturn the last election, while facing felony convictions, would be voted back into power.
It is hard to put into words the feelings generated by this event. Outrage, disappointment, anger, dread and a loss of faith in what this nation stands for are a few.
It is equally difficult to explain why this event occurred. The nation successfully recovered from the global COVID pandemic, and its economic impact. Our economy is booming, nearly every employment occupation received a pay increase, but a large segment of the population said they did not benefit from this reality.
Inflation is declining, and the stock market has reached an all time high. Yet, Trump voters refused to accept this reality. Instead, they fell for lies and misinformation. As a result, they opted for the fool’s gold of a convicted fascist felon.
Skilled journalists have tried to explain the recent election results, but we all are left with one truth: racism, hatred and bigotry run deeper in our souls than we care to admit. As the journalist Edward R. Murrow said, “The obscure we see eventually. The completely apparent takes longer.”
Elections have consequences, for all who voted and those who did not. At this point, it is impossible to predict, with accuracy, the total impact of this election. I find it particularly difficult to understand why Hispanic citizens would vote for a person who promises to deport their undocumented family members.
To judge the future, we all must look back to the past. Trump’s hateful rhetoric, racism and bigotry, played well for those who want him to do what he promised, exact pain on others.
The United States is no longer a shining beacon of hope for freedom-loving people around the world. The consequences of this self-inflicted wound cannot be overstated. Those who caused this event will soon feel the pain of their flawed decision.
James Revels is a retired Army colonel and former columnist for the El Paso Times who lives in East El Paso.
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