So 2016 is certainly creating lots of amusement around the world. While many are concerned about the reality of an economy in turmoil, the election process for the next President of the United States is turning from a comedy of errors to ugly, politics as usual.
The underlying cause of amusement is the candidates on the extreme left and right that represent how far Americans distrust of government has become. The debates are comical in both primaries. No meaningful topics are discussed nor tangible solutions offered. Overplayed language about America this, America that, have hope in the future, the middle class deserve better, etc. Personal attacks are ramping up as the number of primaries increase. Establishment candidates are struggling to devise means to bring down upstarts that are pandering to extremes and fear.
The sad part of the current stage of the process is that no time is being spent on putting America on a solid foundation for future generations. The lack of actual dialogue concerning real issues – national debt, religious freedom, Second Amendment, healthcare, etc. – is shocking. There are many great proposals to tackle many of these issues on both sides of the political spectrum, but candidates are unwilling to engage in meaningful pursuit of change.
Unfortunately, this same behavior is trickling down to the States and local governments. Communities are becoming apathetic because their elected leaders are not making decisive decisions to improve their communities, in many cases. A democracy requires active participation by those elected and those that do the electing.
So for now, we have amusement, not substance.