Opinion
The United States has long been grappling with deep divisions among its citizens, so what we have experienced since 2020 is nothing new. What is new, however, is the impact of President Biden’s actions and words, as if he’s either fanning flames or pouring gasoline on them, given the situation. Let’s examine the President’s tenure and explore the ways in which his actions and policies have contributed to further dividing the country. As a leader he should be well aware that he carries the responsibility of fostering unity, and understanding that his decisions have the ability to create or destroy on national cohesion.
- Political Rhetoric and Tone - The tone set by a leader plays a significant role in shaping the national discourse. President Biden's campaign and subsequent actions have often involved harsh rhetoric and strong partisan language. Rather than working towards finding common ground, his approach has at times fueled animosity and deepened existing divisions between political ideologies. It’s as if he’s gone back in time and plopped down in a rocking chair on the front porch of the Hatfield’s or McCoy’s … a time and place where they just “shoot and hollar” without thinking.
- This is a little more than the annual rival football game between Army vs. Navy. When it comes to Executive Orders and Policy Decisions, President Biden has stirred controversy and exacerbated societal divisions. By quickly undoing policies implemented by President Trump, he has left many Americans feeling disregarded and unheard. Such actions can contribute to a sense of disenfranchisement and amplify existing divisions within the population.
- Handling of Social Issues - Social issues have long been a source of division in the United States. President Biden's approach to sensitive topics such as immigration, gun control, and racial inequality, has been perceived by some as favoring one side, and amplifying a sense of victimology. By adopting policies that foster hand-outs, government dependency and a sense of “socialism”, he risks deepening societal divisions instead of fostering dialogue and understanding.
- Lack of Bipartisan Collaboration - Bipartisan collaboration has historically been essential for national unity. However, President Biden's administration has faced criticism for limited efforts to work across party lines as he promised. By prioritizing the advancement of partisan policies without seeking consensus, the president contributes to the growing rift between political factions, hindering the potential for constructive dialogue.
- Communication and Engagement - Effective communication and engagement are crucial for bridging gaps and uniting a nation. President Biden's perceived lack of transparency and limited engagement with opposing viewpoints has been a cause for concern. His repeated approach has been the less than desirable “talk to the hand,” response my teenagers gave me back in the 90’s – revealing both his emotional maturity level and his keen ability to deal with conflict.
Leadership plays a pivotal role in either uniting or dividing a nation. It is important to take a good long look at the role of President Biden's actions and policies in contributing to those divisions. But let’s take a quick look at what the President has excelled at - rotten rhetoric, poor policies, crappy collaboration and partisan politics. The only path forward is #BEATBIDEN2024.
By Miss Patriot