While watching Donald Trump’s inauguration hate ball, I felt an overwhelming sense of frustration seeing Democrats sitting passively at that grotesque rally. As Trump spewed some of the most vile and repugnant rhetoric I’ve ever heard in this nation, it was baffling to see Democrats act as if nothing out of the ordinary was happening.
Let me make this abundantly clear: as Trump openly advocated for the release of right-wing domestic terrorists, brazenly referring to them as “heroes,” the Democrats sat quietly behind him as if this were just another day in paradise. At what point will the Democrats wake up to the reality that we are no longer living in normal times? This is not politics as usual; this is a battle for the soul of the country.
Back in 2016, Trump had some constraints. Many within his administration acted as guardrails, occasionally reining in his most outrageous impulses. They’d slap his hand, send him off with a cheeseburger, and tell him “no.” Fast forward to 2025, and those days are over. Trump now surrounds himself with people who not only allow him to indulge his worst instincts but actively encourage him to push the boundaries further than ever before.
If Democrats persist in using the same tired playbook—the “when they go low, we go high” approach—Republicans will continue steamrolling their way to complete domination. At some point, it will simply be too late to reverse course. This is no longer a time for platitudes or half-measures. Democrats need to grasp the severity of the moment.
Action is not optional; it’s essential. People need to fortify themselves, step out of their comfort zones, and confront this dangerous trajectory head-on. Hiding under the covers, taking “mental breaks,” or disengaging from the harsh realities of this political landscape isn’t just unhelpful—it’s irresponsible. The time for refreshing and recharging has passed. This fight demands stamina, focus, and unrelenting commitment.
Democrats must toughen up, get organized, and take meaningful action. The United States as we once knew it—a land of democratic norms, checks and balances, and shared values—is slipping away. It’s time to stand up and push back against the radical right’s relentless agenda. Americans cannot afford to allow a would-be dictator to continue dismantling the foundation of this country. The time to act is now.