The last thing to come out of the box was hope. It flew away.”
― Kurt Vonnegut, Timequake
First, let me do what my obligation as an American citizen compels me to do, offer my congratulations to President-elect Trump. While I did not vote for you, I accept the will of the people in selecting you as the 45th President.
I wish you well in your time in office. I hope you will recognize the obligation of trust America has placed in your hands to preserve this republic.
In every event, no matter how it may be perceived, there are both negatives and positives. In the case of this election, perhaps President-elect Trump will demonstrate to the American people where the true power of government resides, with Congress.
Despite years of trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act, even with a Republican majority, Congress failed because enough members worked against it. That majority is one seat less today with another leaning Democrat.
Congress sets the budget. Congress controls the purse strings.
This may serve as a blunt, even dangerous, education for America with an inexperienced President wielding his limited powers against the vast experience of career politicians.
The repudiation of the establishment Mr. Trump touts as illustrating the frustration of Americans with this system did not carry to Congress. The overwhelming majority of incumbents were re-elected.
Perhaps, we will seize this time to impose term limits on all elected offices. Experience is important, entrenchment is counter-productive.
This was an election which offered two choices, jump off a cliff and take your chances on a survivable landing or stand your ground against a stampeding heartless carnivore who shows no remorse to those who stand in her way.
One aside, this campaign talked about character as a quality critical to a President. Yet, Ms. Clinton chose to go against a well-established tradition in this country. She declined to give a concession speech. I wonder, had the results been different, if she would ignore such a choice by Mr. Trump.
Neither were good choices. How this story ends remains to be seen. That this country will persevere is unquestioned. What we will look like as a country in 4 years is the question.
Congratulations, Mr. Trump, take care of our country.