Navigating Division: The Centrist's Perspective

In 2025, the United States appears more divided than at any other time in my memory. This division is exacerbated when leaders, such as Donald Trump, prioritize the interests of their base over the broader population. Trump's leadership style, which demands unconditional loyalty, has contributed significantly to this polarization. As someone who has always identified as a centrist, I find myself questioning the viability of this political stance in the current climate. The MAGA movement, in particular, presents a paradox: it claims to be conservative yet advocates for expansive government power, seemingly contradicting the principles of limited government that conservatives traditionally uphold.

What is a Centrist?

A centrist, in my view, is someone who actively listens to diverse perspectives and strives to find common ground. Centrism is about compromise and seeking solutions that benefit everyone, a concept often referred to as "bipartisanship." However, the term "bipartisan" implies a binary political landscape, which oversimplifies the spectrum of opinions that exist. My political journey has seen me evolve from a more conservative stance to a position that is fiscally conservative and socially liberal, with a lean towards libertarian ideals regarding personal freedoms and limited government.

Religion, Empathy, and Politics

Religion has historically been a source of division, with many conflicts rooted in religious differences. Today, the intersection of religion and politics further complicates this landscape. The question "What would Jesus do?" is often used to justify political stances, but I believe Jesus would transcend partisan lines. He would be a centrist, a listener, and a peacemaker, someone who could engage in dialogue with empathy and understanding. The MAGA movement, with its divisive rhetoric and lack of empathy, stands in stark contrast to this ideal.

Blind Faith and Political Manipulation

My skepticism towards religion and the MAGA movement stems from a resistance to blind faith. Faith often serves as a crutch, filling in gaps in our understanding and evading critical thinking. Many MAGA supporters view Trump as a savior, despite his history of deception and manipulation. This dynamic mirrors religious sentiments like "God works in mysterious ways," which can be used to avoid responsibility and shift blame. Trump's ability to deceive and manipulate his supporters is a testament to his skill as a con man, but it also highlights the vulnerability of those who place their faith in him.

The Grifter in Chief

Trump's presidency has been marked by grifting, where he exploits his position for personal gain. From selling merchandise to suing media companies for defamation, his actions are those of a high-caliber grifter. Trump University is just one example of his scams, and his continued business ventures often seem designed to deceive rather than to provide genuine value. His pride in these actions is troubling, as it suggests a lack of ethical boundaries and a disregard for the trust placed in him by his supporters.

Conclusion

The current political divide in the United States is a complex issue, rooted in leadership that prioritizes division over unity and manipulation over empathy. As a centrist, I believe that the path forward lies in fostering dialogue, understanding, and compromise. It is crucial to question blind faith and to hold leaders accountable for their actions. Only by recognizing the humanity in each other and working towards common goals can we begin to heal the rifts that threaten to tear our nation apart. The future of our democracy depends on our ability to rise above partisanship and embrace a more inclusive and empathetic political discourse.