Opinion: Looking Forward

by Logan Ferrell ('11)

Finally, after a bitter two years of mudslinging and attack ads, the presidential campaign is finally over. Such an ordeal by necessity brings out both the best and worst of the American political system. So, with the sudden lack of a campaign issue to focus on, it seems appropriate to both look back at the consequences and look forward to options for the future.

As a summation to the end of this political season, I offer a plea for moderation and cooperation in the many trying days to come. With the election of a new president, the nation is provided with a chance, to a degree, to begin anew. While many problems of the past remain and a great many new problems are thrust upon our nation with each passing day; a new administration and a new congress have the ability to rectify and make progress. If appropriate initiative is taken, this combination in power has the potential to provide needed reform and bring new opportunities to the people. In affairs abroad, a new administration is left the responsibility of patching up for an era of ignorance and miscommunication, while still fulfilling the many commitments we have already made. The many difficulties of America’s current position require a new spirit of responsibility and practicality; it is the practicality that I fear for most.

As with every election, the recent months have brought out the most divisive and partisan within the nation. In an election dissolved into sound bites, a reasonable debate on policy inevitably turned into a trading of routine party lines and stereotypes. Now, where one party holds sway in both the executive and legislative branches, there is the constant risk of abandoning pragmatic policy for the furthering of party interest. While power may lure a new administration into a hopelessly self-interested mindset, we must remember that healthy debate between those with opposing philosophies almost always leads to a more reasonable solution for all those involved.

As the nation begins its collective countdown to inauguration, those in power must keep in mind the keys to a real and successful policy that benefits American citizens. Practical solutions, based in compromise and discussion instead of partisanship and empty promises; should always be the goal of a real American leader.