The Unavoidability of Donald Trump: A Persistent Presence in American Politics

It's challenging, but I try to avoid focusing on Donald Trump, a despicable figure who is wreaking havoc on the planet. Despite my efforts, it's becoming increasingly difficult to turn a blind eye to his destructive influence. Even after leaving office, his impact and the lingering effects of his presidency might fade over time, but not completely. The persistence of his loyal followers and the ongoing legal battles will likely keep his name alive for years to come.

Optimistically hoping for a post-Trump era: Considering half the country voted for him, it's clear that many attention-seekers were appeased by his promises and rhetoric. While his presidency may be over, the question remains: how long will his supporters remain loyal, especially without the power of the presidency to fuel their enthusiasm? He has little to offer aside from grandiose promises and empty bluster.

Legal and Financial Constraints: Trapped in lawsuits and financial obligations, Trump is unlikely to stage another credible run for the presidency in 2024. Focusing on settling debts and dealing with legal challenges will keep him busy for some time. It raises the question of whether his political influence will dissipate faster than many anticipate.

The Comparison: Trump isn’t a problem to ignore, much like an abscessed tooth or a raging hemorrhoid. His absence would be a welcome relief, but not an immediate solution. Though Joe Biden's administration is undoubtedly better than that of Hillary Clinton in certain contexts, the lingering impact of Trump's presidency is still felt. In particular, the ongoing legal and political fallout makes it difficult to fully move past him.

Obsession with Trump: Friends and acquaintances who continuously complained about Trump's tweets and actions on Facebook may have never realized how invested they were in his every move. The constant stream of negativity and political obsessiveness was a surprising revelation, even for those who once brushed it off.

Eroding National Integrity: When a leader commits acts that severely damage the country, it becomes impossible to ignore or let go. Living in a city where Godzilla is stomping around would be difficult, yet that's the reality faced by many Americans during this era. Trump's actions had real-world consequences that couldn't be ignored by those willing to look past them.

Coup Allegations and Political Loyalty: The growing concern over the involvement of over 100 Republicans in alleged coups or insurrections reveals a deep divide in American politics. These individuals are prioritizing their allegiance to Trump over the rule of law and the country's best interests. While this loyal behavior may continue in the short term, the long-term consequences are uncertain, especially regarding their re-election prospects in 2022.

Conclusion: While the impact of Donald Trump on American politics will eventually wane, the persistence of his influence through his followers and ongoing legal battles suggests that his legacy will remain a significant factor in American politics. It will be crucial to vigilantly monitor the actions and potential impact of those still loyal to him, ensuring that their actions align with democratic principles and the preservation of the country's sovereignty.