With 2024 behind us, it’s hard not to reflect on one of the most pivotal moments in American history: Donald Trump’s election victory. His win marks a darker chapter for the country, one where right-wing forces have become deeply entrenched in almost every corner of government and society. The consequences of this are impossible to ignore, as the nation finds itself trapped in a dangerous web of propaganda and political manipulation. If we continue down this path, there’s a real danger that democracy may not survive the next four years.
Since Trump’s first term, right-wing influence has seeped into nearly every corner of American life. The signs of erosion are everywhere.
The ideals of democracy, once the bedrock of our nation, are under siege. New laws are limiting access to voting, and gerrymandering has made elections feel rigged. Meanwhile, religious groups are pushing their agendas into government policy, undermining freedoms in the name of morality. At the same time, oligarchs, armed with unchecked financial power, have hijacked the political process, steering decisions while the rest of the country struggles.
The most chilling part? The rise of propaganda has divided the nation and made it harder than ever to separate fact from fiction. Right-wing social media platforms like X and Telegram, as well as numerous conservative news outlets, have become breeding grounds for misinformation, fostering an ever-growing mistrust among Americans. This is no accident. The constant barrage of fake news and echo chambers is designed to keep people confused, uninformed, and divided. Critical thinking and informed debate, once hallmarks of a thriving democracy, have given way to echo chambers and tribalism.
The problem is bigger than just politics; it’s about how the right-wing has weaponized propaganda. They’ve made it far more difficult to have honest, open conversations. The media, which should be holding leaders accountable, isn’t helping either. They are now part of the problem, spreading false narratives, cowering in the face of fascism, and deepening the divisions among us.
The consequences of this shift are dire. If we continue down this road, things will only get worse. The rule of law is being undermined, and justice is no longer blind—it’s biased and corrupt. The judicial system is being used to serve partisan interests, not uphold the truth. Our education system, once a source of progress and critical thought, is now under attack and vilified as a tool of elitism.
But this trajectory is not inevitable. American voters still hold the power to reclaim the greatness of this nation. We have time to change things, but the window is closing fast. If we want democracy to survive the next four years, we need to act now. First, we must reject the alliance of religion and politics that is eroding our freedoms. We must demand leaders who prioritize the common good over corporate profits and personal dogma. America needs leaders who prioritize the common good, not corporate interests or personal agendas.
Next, we must fight to preserve the truth. The spread of propaganda must be countered with facts, and we need to demand better from the media. We cannot afford to let misinformation control the narrative any longer.
Finally, we need to rebuild trust in our institutions. The law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of wealth or power. No one should be above accountability, and no one should be denied justice. We also need to protect and strengthen our education system to ensure that everyone has access to the knowledge and tools they need to navigate this challenging time.
America is at a crossroads, and the next four years will determine whether we can overcome this era of propaganda and authoritarianism. These next years could define the future of this nation—whether it collapses under the weight of its divisions or rises anew, united and strong. The choice is ours. Let us make it wisely.
