My message to individuals thinking about supporting a candidate with a contentious reputation:
Consider a well-known comedic bit discussing how one cannot simply declare themselves a good person. It’s not a personal choice; it’s determined by how one is perceived based on their actions. When others label you as bigoted or prejudiced, it’s not up for debate. Their perceptions stem from your choices and behavior.
This is the crux of the defensiveness surrounding the idea of voting for a polarizing figure. You don’t have the authority to self-identify as non-bigoted if your actions suggest otherwise. The judgment of others, particularly those from marginalized communities, is valid and should be taken seriously. When individuals from diverse backgrounds express that supporting such a candidate aligns you with racism or bigotry, you cannot dismiss their experiences.
For instance, regardless of your personal stance on policies regarding immigration or religion, endorsing someone who advocates for discriminatory practices indicates a level of complicity. Supporting a candidate who aims to create databases of specific religious groups or who seeks to deport individuals without due process reflects an acceptance of racism.
Moreover, if you hold no personal animosity towards LGBTQ+ individuals yet vote for someone who actively promotes policies that undermine their rights, you are contributing to a culture of bigotry. Similarly, if you believe in gender equality but support a candidate with a history of misogynistic behavior, you are tacitly endorsing those views.
Ultimately, if you do not believe in the harmful ideologies being promoted, yet still cast your vote for that candidate, you are signaling your agreement with their platform. The implications of your decision resonate far beyond your individual beliefs.
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In summary, your voting choices can reflect your values. If those values do not align with discriminatory practices, consider how your vote may be interpreted by others.