It was a long past week in the c2c household. I came down with the flu and by the time I started feeling better my two little c2c’s got sick. All this downtime ahead of the inauguration has had me reflecting a lot on the past four years… really last 8 years… and how I feel like the social fabric is decaying. Unfortunately, I don’t really see an antidote to that problem (technology really is a story of Prometheus’s fire), but I find myself cautiously optimistic nevertheless.
As someone who leans libertarian (in truth, I’m a little all over the political map), I found myself unable to cast my vote for Donald Trump in the last election. While I share some of his policy priorities and appreciate aspects of his leadership, there are critical concerns that ultimately swayed my decision.
One of the key reasons I couldn’t support Trump was his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly his support for lockdowns in the early months. While I understand the unprecedented nature of the crisis, the lockdowns imposed by state governments—often encouraged by the federal government—had devastating effects on small businesses, individual liberties, and the economy. As a libertarian, I believe strongly in personal responsibility and the right to make choices about one’s own health and livelihood. I felt that Trump’s willingness to endorse these sweeping measures ran counter to the principles of limited government and individual freedom.
Another significant concern was his refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election. A peaceful transfer of power is a cornerstone of American democracy, and Trump’s actions following his loss raised serious questions for me about his commitment to this principle. As someone who values limited government and the rule of law, his response undermined the institutional stability I believe is crucial for our nation.
I also felt that Ron DeSantis better embodied the balance of conservative principles and pragmatic leadership that I wanted in a candidate. DeSantis’ approach to governance in Florida resonated with me, especially his focus on individual liberties, fiscal responsibility, and local autonomy. Ruthless competence — his record gave me hope for a future that aligns more closely with my libertarian ideals.
That said, while I didn’t vote for Trump, I am rooting for his success as president. The Gaza ceasefire shows he is capable of resolving international conflicts in ways that avoid deeper U.S. involvement. As someone who supports a more restrained foreign policy, this is an encouraging step in the right direction. I hope we will soon see peace in Ukraine.
I’m also encouraged by some of his cabinet picks, which signal a willingness to surround himself with capable advisors. JD Vance seems like a positive embodiment of what “America first” could be when it isn’t represented by chaos incarnate. This could lead to sound policy decisions that benefit the country, even if I don’t always agree with his approach or rhetoric.
At the end of the day, Donald Trump is uniquely influential. He has shaken up the Republican Party, rooting out the establishment and bringing neglected issues to the forefront. However, his ability to inspire loyalty is a double-edged sword. He could use it to bring meaningful reform, but it also risks encouraging authoritarian tendencies. My hope is that he channels his influence toward strengthening our institutions and protecting individual freedoms, rather than undermining them.
