By Seth Dawson / Herald Forum
America has not been this divided since the civil war, and the differences that have destroyed friendships and strained family relations will only become more pronounced during Trump’s second term.
This time, however, a better resolution than civil war is available.
As for our divisions, there is no middle ground between those who fervently endorse MAGA principles and those of use who are horrified by what is happening to this country. Discussions between the two groups typically reach impasse with some version of, “If I have to explain it to you, you wouldn’t get it anyway.”
As for resolution vs. revolution, it would make sense for Washington (as well as Oregon, California, Hawaii and the New England states) to seriously consider becoming Canadian provinces. People who support Trump’s ongoing efforts to re-create our government in his own autocratic image may continue to do so while others would have a worthy alternative.
To be sure, there would still be some major differences of opinion over Canada’s various foreign and domestic policies. But those would be the kind of differences we could and did live with under all American presidents, Democratic and Republican, since Lincoln until Trump. But for many of us, the overriding consideration is simply our desire to continue living in a democracy, with the requisite rule of law and checks and balances, and under a government with a social consciousness.
There also would be collateral benefits to the creation of these new provinces: If America is going to abandon its role as the world’s leading example of democracy, it would be good to help bolster the economy and standing of a remaining democratic country. Redividing Washington could permit leaving Eastern Washington — with its many on-going ideological and other differences from Western Washington — in the United States; perhaps as part of Idaho, a much more politically aligned neighbor. (Similar east/west divisions might likewise be desired in Oregon and California). With fewer “blue” states or voters, MAGA would have fewer obstacles to what it and nearly half the voters seemingly want to achieve.
What’s clear is that an overwhelming number of American voters could not be further apart in their vision of America ideals, with unification nowhere in sight. We may reach the point where a matching political separation is in order, something to pursue further; at least as a last resort if current trends cannot be stopped by a mounting resistance.
Seth Dawson lives in Mukilteo.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
