[haswell]

Whatever happens on Tuesday, it’s going to be extremely close. The implication being that the US isn’t a lost cause, and failing to win is a signal that more people need to get involved in politics and pushing against the tide.

How do you expect improvement/positive change if the people who align with your values all flee? If everyone does, it only accelerates the problematic ideologies that are growing.

As harmful as the undesired outcome might be, things won’t turn into some dangerous authoritarian dictatorship overnight. The guardrails that exist need to be tended and cared for. Throwing up one’s hands and running away seems deeply problematic and arguably more harmful than the “wrong” election result itself if enough people choose the same path.

[toomuchtodo]

As a US expat, I am permitted to vote from abroad in the last state of residence, which for me is Florida. So, my progressive vote will still be counted without having to expose my family to peril. I will also continue to max out FEC contributions to candidates that support democracy and human rights. I owe the US active effort to improved governance, but also owe my children a safe environment. I believe what I’ve described balances both.

[archagon]

The guardrails should have prevented Trump's 2016 election, but they didn't. I'm sorry to say that any remaining guardrails are nearly worn down to the nubs, especially with the recent Supreme Court ruling allowing the president to essentially act as a king.

When half the country is angry and foolish enough to select someone like Trump and his MAGAs to lead them, there's only so much you can do other than waiting for the next generation(s) to replace them.