America…Afraid.
I am an Asian, based in Australia… and an avid spectator of American politics since I was in my teens, decades ago.
As with any US presidential year, I read and watch news items about the primaries, all the way to the general elections. I was thrilled to have witnessed, albeit through the lens of the internet, the historic election of Barack Obama, eight years ago.
Today, as the Democratic National Convention follows the just concluded convention of the Republicans, I am, together with, I would think, millions of other spectators around the world, amazed with what s happening in the United States of America.
After seeing the nomination of Donald Trump as the official Republican horse, as well as seeing the Clinton ticket announcing her running mate in Kaine (amidst the DNC email / Wikileaks scandal), one thing enters my mind…. America is living in an existence of fear.
Trump and the Republicans are using messages of fear, clearly stated in Trump’s convention speech, in order to get into the White House. Many experts cite that this is a very effective strategy, as evidenced by history, on how numerous tyrants and despots have successfully elevated themselves into positions of power, using fear, hate and anger.... to rile up the crowd.
Hillary Clinton and the Democrats seemingly tried to convey a message of hope, but have realised that it is no match for the fear induced hysteria that has propelled Trump to his victorious campaigns (so far).
Which is why they have now shifted to their own message of fear - fear of Trump.
Slowly and steadily, the message of the Democrats has been focused on the disastrous consequences of a Trump presidency.
Unfortunately for the rest of the world, what happens in the USA, reverberates to every corner of the globe.
Sadly, the fear is spreading.
I cannot wait for November, where, hopefully, a Clinton presidency will emerge, and calm and hope will prevail once more.
Photos: CNN
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