As a movie buff who has watched countless films depicting political dramas and societal shifts, I can’t help but draw parallels between the narrative unfolding on our screens – both big and small – and the current state of affairs in America. The 2016 election left many of us feeling like we were watching a tragic, unbelievable sequel to a movie we wished had ended differently, while this time around, it seems we’re stuck in an endless reboot with no signs of hope for a fresh start.


2016, when Donald Trump was elected, seemed to trigger prolonged anguished cries from those who didn’t support him. Now, it appears more like a heavy silence is hanging over the nation, at least as portrayed on today’s episode of The View. Known for its political debates (ahem, Rosie O’Donnell versus Elisabeth Hasselbeck), the show today featured the hosts, all opposed to Trump, somberly reflecting on democracy. Even the usually fiery Joy Behar exhibited restraint while voicing her displeasure. “My takeaway is that the system functioned,” she said on the show. “We live in a democratic nation. People voted. This was the choice they made. I strongly disagree with the decision Americans made, but I feel incredibly hopeful that we have a democratic process in this country.

In a similar vein, Whoopi Goldberg echoed the importance of voting before acknowledging Vice-President Kamala Harris for her accomplishments. “She achieved this in just two months,” Goldberg stated emphatically. “People didn’t seem to vote, I’m not sure why, and it doesn’t matter now. He is now the president.” Similarly, Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former Trump staffer turned critic, highlighted the significant backing for the Republican candidate, remarking that “tens of millions of Americans, our friends, neighbors, family members, voted for Donald Trump.” Griffin added, “We may disagree with them, and we likely do here at this table, but they are good, decent people.” Even Ana Navarro, known for her fervor, seemed subdued. “I pray for the best for our country,” she said, “and I promise to continue fighting for our LGBTQ community, immigrants, elderly, young girls, and women.” Only Sunny Hostin maintained her usual composure and wisdom. “Many years ago, my father told me that I was the first person in our family to enjoy full civil rights,” she said. “And now, I have fewer civil rights than I did when he told me that.

In a similar vein to their response following the 2016 election, where the women appeared intensely focused and genuinely anxious, we find a striking resemblance now. Goldberg stated then, “He not only challenges the status quo on children of color, women’s rights, and my own bodily autonomy, but my friend’s children are terrified.” The View, as it often does, mirrored the nation’s sentiment: a deep sense of sadness. It seems like we’re in for a prolonged four years.

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2024-11-07 02:53