The US election matters to The Bahamas | Editorials

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The United States presidential election, in which US Vice President Kamala Harris will face off against former US President Donald Trump, is today.

It will also determine control of the US Congress.

In this election, The Bahamas and the Caribbean find themselves with a keen interest in the outcome, given how closely aligned our economies and regional interests are with US policies.

A Trump return to the presidency would likely bring back the divisive rhetoric and erratic foreign policy choices that left scars on many alliances.

By contrast, Harris, with her common-sense economic approach and commitment to social equity, would be a stabilizing force in the region.

Her vision prioritizes pragmatic solutions to the economic pressures many Americans face, which in turn would strengthen US foreign policy engagement with countries like The Bahamas.

Harris has promised to continue the administration’s balanced policies on immigration, climate action, and economic recovery – all policies that would positively influence the Caribbean region as well.

Her leadership offers a clear break from the turbulence of Trump’s previous administration, marked by isolationism, attacks on democratic norms, and his disdain for countries he openly labeled with off-color remarks that we do not deem fit to print.

His callous comments about Haitian migrants and his lack of support for Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, only to have his surrogate recently further insult Puerto Rico, revealed a disdain for our Caribbean brethren that is hard to overlook.

His disregard for human dignity and divisive rhetoric could further erode America’s standing as a leader of the free world.

By contrast, Harris embodies a calm, inclusive, and forward-looking approach.

A vital component of Harris’ economic agenda is her focus on creating sustainable job opportunities and increasing support for education and healthcare.

This strategy should resonate with Bahamians, particularly since the United States remains our largest trading partner, our primary source of tourists, and is a key player in regional stability.

Of course, Trump is a force to be reckoned with, as his supporters remain fiercely loyal, and he knows how to galvanize a base.

But Americans must consider the broader implications of Trump’s possible return to power.

His previous term concluded with a shocking insurrection, which he incited by refusing to accept his election loss, undermining the very foundation of American democracy.

Such actions reveal a man willing to put personal ambition above the principles that make the United States a beacon of freedom and justice.

Trump’s incapacity for self-control and his disregard for ethical norms make him unfit to serve as president again.

The United States deserves a leader who values its constitution above personal interests.

This election also presents an opportunity for many Bahamians and Bahamian-Americans residing in the United States to participate.

While the number of Bahamians who can vote is not large enough to sway the outcome, every vote counts in a closely contested election.

It is essential for all eligible voters to exercise this right, as the choice made will have ripple effects far beyond US borders.

As such, Caribbean-Americans have a unique opportunity to vote for a candidate who respects our shared heritage and has a deep understanding of the needs and contributions of minority communities.

Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis earlier this year highlighted the close bond between The Bahamas and the United States during the US Embassy’s anniversary celebrations in Downtown Nassau.

This bond, he noted, is founded on mutual respect and a shared commitment to democracy and stability.

The friendship between our two countries has endured political transitions and is built to withstand changes in leadership.

However, it thrives most when the US has a leader who fosters goodwill, one who respects our shared history and upholds America’s role as a dependable ally.

This election is an opportunity for Americans to select a leader who represents the nation’s best values, prioritizes meaningful progress, and inspires trust among the international community.

As Bahamians, we celebrate our enduring friendship with the United States, regardless of the election’s outcome.

Yet, we cannot ignore the qualities we hope to see in the next US president – qualities that Kamala Harris exemplifies.

With her at the helm, the United States would be better positioned to lead with integrity and reinforce alliances that support peace and progress.

In contrast, a return to Trump’s divisive leadership would risk eroding the very foundation of America’s role in the world and damage relationships cultivated over generations.

This moment calls for unity, decency, and stability.

The American people have a profound choice before them.

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Source link : http://www.bing.com/news/apiclick.aspx?ref=FexRss&aid=&tid=672a1a94d28d456f9d117fb42cb262b7&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenassauguardian.com%2Fopinion%2Feditorials%2Fthe-us-election-matters-to-the-bahamas%2Farticle_a49635e8-9af7-11ef-9d70-17abd7d6a1fa.html&c=5314489083827692695&mkt=en-us Author : Publish date : 2024-11-04 23:36:00 Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source .