Would You Change Your Vote if Given the Chance?
Looking back, if given the opportunity to revisit my choice in the US election, would I change my vote? The honest answer is no, for a simple reason: my vote never had an impact on any election.
However, considering the theoretical aspect of it, I might have chosen to be more of an advocate for my political stance in my social circle. But due to the limited size and influence of my circle, it would likely have been ineffective.
In my career, I’ve worked tirelessly in various political campaigns: for Eisenhower, Reagan, Nixon, as well as several Republican governors. Then, I joined the ranks of independent candidates. It was during these campaigns that I first heard about Donald Trump's “shenanigans” with women, pending lawsuits, and his business dealings in Tampa.
Despite his reputation in the Northeast, Trump also faced significant financial troubles, especially in his construction projects. He defaulted on a $420 million loan on two high-rise condominiums, leading to legal disputes with workers who were never paid. Trump’s response? He advised them to sue him, which unfortunately, remains unresolved in the court system.
Adding to the scrutinized narrative, Trump’s gambling ventures did not fare well either. Despite his financial crises, he continued to acquire more luxurious properties, such as golf courses and casinos in New Jersey. The story of him claiming that his electric panels blew out due to the popularity of his gaming machines was just another layer of deception that carried weight due to the repeated nature of his statements.
The Deterioration of Trust in Leadership
When Donald Trump finally emerged as the presidential candidate, it wasn't just about his business ventures. It was during the early days of the 2016 election campaign that his rhetoric and actions first caused concern. Despite these warnings, the presidential campaign, run by his son and team, downplayed his shortcomings, focusing on his controversial statements. After all, a lie repeated often enough becomes truth, as the adage goes.
Once Trump was elected, the narrative shifted to the unproven medical treatments he endorsed, claiming he knew more than the doctors and scientists. This interference in healthcare policy was alarming, considering his lack of expertise in the field. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, his handling of the crisis became a topic of heated debate. While the world was grappling with a rapidly increasing death toll, Trump chose to escape to a golf course, sending conflicting messages to the public about the severity of the situation.
His administration’s response to the pandemic was chaotic, with his final days in office marked by a series of avoidable public events, despite the warnings from medical professionals. When he himself contracted the virus, he publicized his hospital visit in secret, while isolating himself from his loyal supporters. Meanwhile, his supporters were still being told not to take the vaccine, drastically undermining public trust.
The Final Decision
Joe Biden, the Democratic candidate, appeared as a beacon of hope to many voters, including myself. His unwavering stance against the chaos and uncertainty under the Trump administration was compelling. Given the above reasons, I cast my vote for Joe Biden, believing in his ability to lead with compassion, wisdom, and integrity.
Is there a case for loyalty to a leader who repeatedly ignores or undermines the well-being of his constituency? The question is not about blind support but about choosing a leader who places the needs of their people first.
Final Thoughts
The decision to vote is a deeply personal one, shaped by a myriad of factors, from personal beliefs to practical considerations. My vote remains with Joe Biden, not just because I thought he was the better candidate, but also because I believe in the importance of choosing leaders who prioritize the common good.
Would you change your vote if you had the chance? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.