The great United States of America. A country of freedom for all and great respect in politics—you would think, right?

Well, saying that Democrats and Republicans respect each other and saying there is respect in American politics in general is a conversation up for debate by itself. For the past four years, bashing and attacking between opponents has greatly increased in the political culture of America.

Recently seen in his Pennsylvania campaign, former United States President Donald Trump, was actively coming after current President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump stated that Biden and Harris were corrupt and lying to the people and that only when he was in office, he took the job very seriously 

Now, considering what Trump has said in the past about his political opponents, this was quite tame. However, it’s the fact that America is seen and portrayed as this great nation and we have these candidates who cannot even tolerate each other, let alone respect each other. 

It’s not just Trump or the Republican party acting this way, it is also Biden and Democrats. A prime example of this “political bashing” is the presidential debate between Trump and Biden in June 2024. 

The most highlighted point from the debate was the constant bickering and attacking from both candidates. While watching that debate, it felt like there was no genuine debate going on between the two about American issues. 

What the American people saw on their television were two men who were running for president of the United States, arguing about golf and just blatantly disrespecting each other. 

It was embarrassing and the internet did not hold back either, seeing as memes and jokes were flooding the media. Comparing that debate to others that have occurred in the past is so extremely disappointing and terrifying. 

There used to be mutual respect. There is now little to none. So it leaves the question, are these the people we want representing America?

It’s disheartening how unserious American politics have become. 

How these representatives act can also mirror how their parties act as well. There is a big rip between the Democrats and Republicans. Respecting and having a respectful conversation with a different party from yours is now seen as a hard task today for many people, even our political candidates. 

How America’s presidential candidates act towards each other is not something younger generations should witness. 

Seeing someone in power, let alone the president, bash and attack other people can have a ripple effect and influence politics to remain and fully evolve into a non-respectful democracy. 

Bashing and shaming political opponents is and should never be the American tactic when it comes to politics.

This country was founded on the principles of liberty and freedom. It was founded on the idea of having mutual respect and decision-making that benefits both parties and the common good of the American people. 

That is the American tactic and should remain so. Our political leaders should always represent that.