Bellingham voters reflect on national election results

President Trump told voters during the campaign to cast their ballots as if his name were on the ticket. In a column published Thursday, local writer John Schwab argues that Bellingham residents and voters across the country did exactly that.

Schwab, who describes himself as a Democrat, says the election results confirmed a widespread rejection of the Trump brand of politics. He notes that the Republican Party lost seats that were previously considered safe. He believes voters prioritized policy and character over other factors.

The columnist points to specific failures of the current administration as likely reasons for the outcome. He references the renovation of the Reflecting Pool at the White House. Schwab says Trump blamed vandals for damage to the project, but the Department of Justice and the contractors later admitted the damage resulted from poor management.

Schwab argues that this incident revealed a pattern of misinformation. He suggests voters grew tired of what he calls a deluge of lies. He also cites the party's focus on issues like racism and xenophobia as factors that turned voters away.

He mentions the role of Elon Musk in the election. Schwab notes that Musk spent about $500 million on the race, with $200 million going to Texas. He compares this expenditure to the total amount George Soros has spent on elections in his lifetime. Schwab describes the spending as a failed attempt to buy influence in the government.

The column also touches on specific candidates. Schwab mentions John Fetterman, a senator who switched parties. He says Fetterman's move will not change the balance of power. He also refers to Mary Peltola, a representative from Alaska whose election is currently unclear. Schwab believes she would have won easily without her unconventional campaign strategy.

Schwab expresses relief rather than gloating. He says the weight of the previous administration feels lifted. He hopes the new Democratic majority will balance holding leaders accountable with effective legislation. He wants the party to demonstrate what he describes as good, honest, and inclusive governance.

He looks ahead to the Senate majority being sworn in. Schwab raises the possibility that Justice Samuel Alito or Justice Clarence Thomas might resign. This would allow Trump to appoint new justices. He references Mitch McConnell's past tactics, including blocking Merrick Garland and forcing through Amy Coney Barrett.

Schwab concludes with a note of cautious optimism. He calls this election a reawakening of the country's goodness. He hopes politicians will be elected based on character and plans rather than negative advertising. He acknowledges that this hope may be unrealistic given the last ten years, but says it is worth holding onto.

The column ends with Schwab's belief that the Republican Party will eventually resume its role as a partner in government. He wants elections to be returned to the people rather than the oligarchs. He says this view is based on the results of the recent vote.