Violent words lead to violent actions: Tense political climate in America moves beyond words

It’s no secret that the current political climate in America has been tense, and this week one another lesson in just how out of hand our differences in opinion have gotten. On Monday, the FBI discovered that a pipe bomb had been sent to George Soros, and as the week progressed, a total of 13 homemade pipe bombs had been intercepted. 

Everyone who got sent a package is an outspoken critic of Donald Trump, including politicians such as Barack Obama, Hillary and Bill Clinton, Maxine Waters and many others. One was even sent to the CNN office, addressed to John Brennan, a former CIA director who has never even worked at CNN.

These recent events have confirmed what we already knew to be true: America has become vastly divided.

President Donald Trump addressed the issue on Wednesday afternoon on Oct. 25. “Americans must come together and send one very clear, strong, unmistakable message that acts or threats of political violence of any kind have no place in the United States of America.” 

While what he says is true, Trump is further illustrated the hypocrisy that comes out of his words, as he has threatened violent actions toward others over and over again. He has been quoted encouraging acts of violence at his rallies saying things like, “Any guy who can do a body slam, he is my type,” and, “If you see somebody getting ready to throw a tomato, knock the crap out of them, would you? Seriously? OK? Just knock the hell … I promise you I will pay for the legal fees. I promise, I promise,”

How can we expect Americans to remain civil and calm when the leader of our country does not do the same? 

At this point, we must set the example for ourselves. The next time you are talking with someone about a current political topic and come to a disagreement, remember that’s OK. If we can all refrain from violence, maybe it will encourage others to do the same. If we continue to speak violently and aggressively, it will just lead to violent and aggressive actions, such as what happened earlier this week, so have those tough conversations with those you disagree with, and just agree to disagree without threatening one another. 

Ending division doesn’t mean we all have to agree; it means we all need to respect one another’s opinions and differences.