Disunited states of America
“Where have all the leaders gone?” laments US bluesman Seasick Steve on his 2020 track
“Hey, man, I got an idea. You wanna hear? Or are you just too busy, now? Try a little respect. Common courtesy. Just a little respect.”
When it comes to the United States and its politics — and perhaps places closer to home, too — the song’s themes seem a novel concept. To anyone with even a passing interest in the country or its politics, the refrain and sentiment, if not the lyrics themselves, will be extremely familiar.
So, even at risk of repeating observations made many times over the past several years, how has the US found itself in this situation?
How can the country’s 2024 presidential race be a repeat of the bitter 2020 elections — Joe Biden versus Donald Trump — which seems the most likely match-up as the new year looms?
Biden, who would be 86 at the end of the term if re-elected, has hardly inspired confidence, even among his own supporters.
He looks frail and bewildered at times, and his effectiveness, cognisance and energy are the subject of much debate and scepticism. His son Hunter’s legal troubles will likely also have a significant effect on his chances.
Trump, of course, is completely contrary to the type of leader for whom Seasick Steve searches.
Beyond rambunctious, Trump could never be mistaken as a statesman. He is, without any doubt, quite the opposite.
He faces assorted legal battles of his own, of course, but these spur his popularity to even loftier highs among his welded-on supporters. It would take a brave bookie to bet against him on current polling. Neither man inspires confidence that they can solve the many problems facing the US.
Certainly, when it comes to perhaps the most serious long-term ailment — divisiveness so extreme that even the most simple of suggestions spurs partisan protests that are nearly impossible to navigate — they are no help at all. For Trump in particular, discord and disharmony seem to be the aim.
There is surely a lesson in this for our own leaders and politicians.
By all means, debate ideas. Play hard. Stay true to your principles.
But there must always be a place, too, for respect, common courtesy, cooperation and objectivity.
To quote again from the hobo bluesman: “It’s all got so divided. Just ain’t no middle ground. He right, and she wrong.
“Don’t see no way around, and I say: Come together just a little bit.”