To me the most upsetting part is how half the country sees things in the exact opposite way. Many see the institutions as already captured by an authoritarian party, and think Trump’s heavy handed ruling is stomping out the corruption.

How does one even engage with the other side when two realities are so polar opposite?

Even if Trump’s depiction of some deep state were true, why is replacing our institutions with less democratic ones the correct answer? It’s as if half the country has given up on democracy and has decided a more authoritarian rule will solve the US’ problems. History teaches us over and over again that this does not end well, even when it feels like the most appealing approach.

I don’t know what to do. I never thought I’d feel terrified living in my own country.