The Impact of Donald Trump’s Presidency on American Daily Life: A Webster Perspective
President Donald Trump's tenure has left a profound impact on American daily life, as evidenced by the experiences of John Webster, a retired American reflecting on the changes over the past four years. For John, the most significant impact has been on his Social Security check, which he considers essential for his retirement.
Direct Effects on Social Security
“I think I would miss my Social Security check. I need it.” John Webster begins, expressing his deep reliance on the monthly Social Security payment. This reflects how changes in government policies and decisions, such as those made by President Trump, directly affect the daily financial security of retired Americans.
“Yes it will affect my daily life. My retirement fund is finally recovering from his failed four years.” Reflecting on the past administration's impact, John notes that while the short-term negative effects were inevitable, his retirement fund is now recovering. This sentiment highlights the ongoing financial uncertainties that come with suddenly changing political landscapes.
Reflections on Past Presidents
John Webster then delves into a broader reflection, comparing the impact of various American presidents on his daily life. He argues that even seemingly distant events, such as the Vietnam War, can have profound, albeit indirect, impacts:
“No president has affected my daily life.”
Think not He sure did mine. LBJ sure affected mine! He pushed this war in Vietnam and greatly expanded the Draft. In order to dodge the draft I decided to sign up for ROTC and by great good luck graduated and was commissioned a 2d Lt with a four year commitment other than in SEA. Would I have decided that route w/o LBJ's later Nixon's war Nope. So your premise is false with that one example.”
From this, it's clear that past and present political decisions can affect Americans in ways that may not be immediately apparent.
Proposed Changes and Their Implications
John then speculates on what might happen if President Donald Trump were to take extreme measures after his re-election:
The Name Change: The United States of America (U.S.A.) would change to the Soviet of American States (S.O.S.), which includes the following subtext: “Soviet Counsel.” Authoritarianism: Individual-1 would become the first authoritarian ruler in American history. Border Closures: Borders would be closed to U.S. citizens intending to leave the U.S., reducing the possibility of migration. Mutable Passports: Citizens wishing to leave would need special passports, which can be purchased from a limited supply (10,000 available). Employment Impact: Jobs would become available for only 50% of the previous salary, making it difficult to maintain the same standard of living.The Power of the Vote
John underscores the critical importance of the upcoming election and encourages Americans to use their voice to counteract such extreme policies:
“You are going to vote BIDEN… Yes”
If that unlikely outcome occurs there will be no more USA to affect. For a Trump re-election will prove that nothing anyone does in office really matters. Then a succession of Trump relatives, cohorts, and wannabes will become the dark at the end of the tunnel.”
John also warns of the potential implications of a lifetime president:
“You will have to watch everything you say and write because while the Constitution gives us a right to free speech, the Constitution also limits a president to two terms in office. If one part of the Constitution is thrown out to benefit Trump, you can be sure that all other parts are going to be thrown out at some point as well.
He concludes with a poignant reminder about the importance of opposition to such a regime, emphasizing that the power of individual choice can protect one's freedoms.