You need not travel far inside the United States before you meet someone who is quick to tell you about American democracy. You are likely to hear phrases such as “a beacon of light around the world” as that person talks of the prestige their country enjoys across the globe. Such an attitude is consistent with the long-held myth of American exceptionalism.
But does that image of American democracy as a sign of hope stand up to reality? And is the U.S. held in as high regard as millions of Americans believe it is? One Gallup poll this year says America is not among the top 20 happiest countries around the world. Perhaps caution is needed before exceptionalism is touted.
Why is America scrutinized the way it is by nations big and small? Perhaps the best way to explain that is to consider this: If the presidential candidates have such contempt for each other, then what image are they projecting to domestic and international audiences?
That disdain will be on full display on September 10. On that evening, Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris will hold their first debate. In a society where respect for self and others is truly valued, the candidates are expected to candidly discuss the nation’s most important issues, not verbally attack each other, and certainly not quibble about whether both microphones should remain open, no matter which of them is speaking.
Yet that argument is taking place, with Harris and the Democrats especially concerned that Trump would regularly and intentionally interrupt her. He has done just that in the past, and his deluge of attacks on Harris and her character is an insult to decency. But Harris has also blasted Trump, at one point claiming that he would destroy the U.S. Constitution if he were to return to the White House.
The squabbling over microphones highlights that with the election roughly two months away, the animosity between the candidates and the parties is intensifying. Questions about policy differences are pushed aside as the two sides launch a barrage of verbal assaults on each other. In a media environment where controversy makes for great headlines, these verbal blasts are dominating the daily news cycle.
Such actions, which do not shine a positive light on America’s democracy, are sending this signal to the American public: If Trump and Harris are not held to account for being disrespectful to each other, then you should feel comfortable acting in the same way when dealing with others.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
