Is This Our Future?

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I am one of those who believe the Civil War never ended, only the battles ceased. The chasms between Unionists and Confederates, between non-racists and racists, between Progressives and Conservatives yawn wider than ever. Is reconciliation possible? Not too likely when the polarization is more emotional than rational.

The division is fueled by a tiny portion of the population who have discovered that their goals are achievable by buying politicians and media outlets. The success of negative campaigns, Fox network and social media blitzes prompts them to expand the purchase of local TV stations and newspapers. Russian support was just the icing on the cake in 2016. If one wonders how on earth intelligent people can turn a blind eye to the corruption, exploitation and destruction this administration is embarked upon, we need only look at the power of propaganda very little different from what the Nazi’s used over 75 years ago.

Millions here and around the world were shocked in 2016. An electoral college system designed for horse and buggy days overturned the popular vote. A collection of smaller states gave senate control to ultra conservatives. Propaganda and PAC money powered congressional votes. After one heady Women’s March that circled the globe, we seem to have retreated into a wait for 2018 mode.

While I’m optimistic that enough voters will see through the conservative myths and want to turn us back onto a saner, more economical, humane course, what if instead we get more of the same? And again in 2020? If that happens, perhaps the cartoon above is in fact the answer.