Uniting for a Stronger America: A Call for Unity After the 2024 Election
Anthony Hernandez
Mission Specialist I Volunteer at Scobee Education Center (NASA-STEM)
As we approach the 2024 presidential election, the landscape of American politics has once again been shaped by powerful voices—from political leaders to influencers in the entertainment industry. Celebrities have long held a prominent role in shaping public discourse, but this election year, their influence has been called into question. The growing distrust of both mainstream media and celebrity-backed endorsements reflects the shift in American voters’ priorities—priorities that focus less on star power and more on tangible issues that impact everyday lives.
The Power of Celebrities in Politics
Celebrities in the entertainment industry, including musicians, actors, and influencers on platforms like YouTube and podcasts, have a significant impact on public opinion. Their platforms allow them to reach millions, often with just a tweet or post. During this election cycle, both major political parties enlisted celebrities to rally support for their respective candidates, attempting to sway voters toward their visions for the future of America.
However, many voters are increasingly skeptical about the celebrity-driven campaigns. The reality is that many of these entertainers live lives far removed from the everyday struggles of most working-class Americans. Their messages—while often well-meaning—can sometimes feel disconnected from the lived realities of voters who are facing rising costs, inflation, and other pressing concerns. This disconnect has led to a growing sense of frustration among those who feel that the issues that matter most to them, such as inflation, the border crisis, and crime, are not being addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
Key Issues Resonate with Voters
As election day nears, voters are focusing on the issues that directly affect their families and communities. The border crisis, rising crime rates, and the financial strain caused by inflation are at the forefront of many Americans' minds.
For some, the idea of a wide-open border and the increase in illegal immigration have become symbols of broader concerns over national security and economic stability. The view that taxpayer dollars are being diverted to fund programs and services for illegal migrants, while American citizens face growing challenges at home, has become a major point of contention. Alongside this, many Americans are frustrated with the continued rise in inflation, which is making basic necessities—food, gas, and healthcare—more expensive by the day.
Moreover, the feeling that American taxpayers are funding wars and other international initiatives without seeing tangible benefits at home has fueled disillusionment. For many, these issues seem to be ignored by mainstream political figures and media, leading to a growing sense of frustration and a desire for change.
The Role of Mainstream Media
Mainstream media, once considered the primary source of information, is facing increased scrutiny from the American public. Many Americans now question the accuracy and integrity of the information they receive from traditional news outlets, especially in the context of election coverage. With the rise of independent news sources, social media, and a more active citizenry, voters are taking matters into their own hands—doing their own research and seeking out diverse perspectives.
This shift has been further exacerbated by the political spin that often colors election-year reporting. Whether supporting one candidate or another, media outlets have been accused of distorting facts to fit narratives. In a time when trust in traditional institutions is at an all-time low, many voters are choosing to rely on their own judgment and experiences to guide their decisions.
The Power of Connection: Candidate and Voter
As voters look to choose the next president, they are asking themselves one fundamental question: Which candidate is truly in touch with the concerns of everyday Americans? While one candidate may focus on issues like transgender rights, many voters feel that their immediate concerns—such as inflation, open borders, crime, and the out-of-control spending by Congress—are not being addressed in a meaningful way.
One candidate’s message resonated with those concerns, promising to focus on the issues that directly impact American citizens: securing the border, reducing inflation, addressing the rise in crime, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. This message resonated with voters who felt ignored by the other side, where celebrity endorsements and progressive agendas seemed disconnected from their struggles.
The Road Ahead: Embracing Unity
While the election process can be contentious, it is essential that, regardless of who wins, we all remember that we are united as Americans. History has shown us that no matter the challenges we face or the party in power, the true strength of this nation lies in its people.
The 2024 election will be a defining moment for the future of the country. The president-elect, supported by a majority in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, will have the opportunity to bring about major changes, whether in foreign policy, economic reform, or social issues. But these changes can only be effective if the American people come together to support one another, beyond the divisions that have plagued our politics.
Let’s be real Americans—those who love this country and believe in its potential. Regardless of which party is in power, we must rise above partisan differences and work toward a common goal: building a brighter, stronger future for all Americans. The true power of democracy lies not in the celebrities who endorse candidates or in the spin of the media, but in the choices made by ordinary citizens who care deeply about the future of their country.
Now more than ever, we must stand united, respect our differences, and move forward together as one nation. Whether the election outcome is in line with our hopes or not, we are all Americans, and that shared identity is our greatest strength. Let's ensure that the next chapter in America’s history is one of healing, growth, and unwavering unity. Americans need to express themselves with concern for other people, and with love, be able to have a discussion, even to agree to disagree, and still be respectful towards each other.