My Opinion: Stay Respectful During this Election

My Opinion: Stay Respectful During this Election

The coming presidential election has been causing lots of controversies. Here are the facts. If Donald Trump wins, he will continue as the 45th president of the United States. However, if Joe Biden wins the election, he will become the United States’ 46th president. Many people are calling this election the most important election in American history. I asked Dr. Robert Cochran, 7th Grade Boys Chair if he agreed. He stated, “In some ways, it [the presidential election] could be [most important in history]. Good arguments on foreign policy could irrevocably change the world for either good or bad.”

         Along with causing dilemmas in the country, the Presidential Election is also causing problems at school. Many discussions have arisen between students and teachers about what candidate is better and should be elected. While talking about candidates can be exciting and informational, everyone should research a few things before talking about a favorite candidate.

         Patrick Egan, Eighth Grade Boys Chair, told me, “I tried around mid-September to at least introduce my classes to the concept of representative democracy, and how we are not necessarily voting on issues, but voting on candidates who represent our views.” Egan, a history teacher, has been discussing the election in class by “Using some CNN10 every once in a while, and sometimes watching a video that gets at a particular point.” As the election comes closer, however, more of the conversations are about it. As happens in all elections, sometimes the discussion involves two different people passionate about their candidates.

         Many students in the Middle School have been voicing their opinions about the upcoming election during school. Discussing the election is an excellent thing, as having a say in the government is your American right and something everybody should do. However, while voicing your opinions, it is vital to make sure that no one is insulted by what you say. Everybody has different views in this coming election. Even if two people are voting for the same candidate, it is essential to realize that the two people might be voting for the same candidate for different reasons. “I think a large part is about tone,” states Egan. “I think the biggest thing we need to return to is just a system of respect.”

         Westminster is also attempting to face this election in a non-biased way. In the High School, teachers are allowing students above the age of eighteen to go vote on November 3. However, Westminster is attempting not to show favorites and keep neutral throughout this process.

         In all, the election is coming around fast this year. It is considered one of the most crucial elections in American history. But when talking about your favorite candidate at school or anywhere else, make sure to speak with a respectful tone and listen to what others have to say.