November 6th, 2024.
At 11 PM last night, I decided to try to get some sleep. A few hours later, I awoke sweating and plagued by a stomach ache. Holding my breath, I turned on MSNBC, and tears filled my eyes. I will remember this moment for the rest of my life. Sitting alone in my room, I clutched my fluffiest blanket for comfort, overwhelmed by the sadness, fear, and anger I felt. My Harris-Walz hat sat on my dresser, a tangible representation of my shattered hope. Was my optimistic attitude a curse? After all, I had been so confident; my excitement had been invigorating. It feels surreal to comprehend how a man with 34 felony charges could be elected once again to our highest office.
Tonight, when Kamala Harris addresses the nation from Howard University, she will do so with dignity and diplomacy—qualities that Donald Trump proudly lacks. Let me be clear: this loss does not diminish the significant accomplishments of her career. The Harris campaign fought valiantly, and their efforts were not in vain. This struggle is worthwhile, making this loss even more disheartening.
The phrase “We’re not going back” encapsulated the vision of the Harris campaign. Ironically, it also underscored the challenges inherent in Harris’s plan. Many Americans were resistant to progress due to a lack of understanding of her vision for the future. Now, the days, months, and years ahead will be difficult for many.
For Democrats, this election represented a detour on the highway to progress. I want to emphasize a crucial and standout aspect of the Harris campaign: engagement with young people, many of whom were not yet eligible to vote. She made the youth feel seen and heard, and the significance of that cannot be overstated. Investing time and energy to connect with this demographic will prove worthwhile in due course. Soon, these passionate young individuals, inspired by Harris, will help turn the tide. America is an idea, and I believe in America. We must do better, and I am confident that one day, we will.
I needed that Fi, ty