Following the Jan. 20 inauguration of Donald J. Trump, many Burroughs students are reacting strongly — some with hope, some with concern.
“I watched it and it just made me upset because modern politics are based on the idea of division and infighting,” said junior Xander Barney.
As with most of the country, Burroughs students are split on what Pres. Trump’s return to office will mean for the country.
In response to a Blockbuster email survey, some students voiced optimism.
“I hope that God can use him to do His will for America,” said junior Aiden Thibado.
Sophomore Darien Mondragon summed up many students’ responses, saying, “I think it’s good to have change in this country.”
Some students seem pleased with Trump’s plans with DOGE and Elon Musk.
“I think that it will make the government accountable for everything that goes on internally,” said one anonymous senior.
“Trump was our best choice compared to Kamala, although not as good as when Obama was prez,” said sophomore Tristan Blanton.
Some students seemed to understand their peers’ concerns about the President, although they voiced their support for his policies.
“He’s not a good person but I never supported Kamala’s platform,” said one anonymous senior. “His [platform] was always better and so far he’s making moves to get the country in the right direction.”
“I understand the concerns about Trump’s return to office,” said junior Emilia Tippetts. “While I have my reservations, I’m committed to supporting my president and working toward constructive change.”
Respondents opposed to Pres. Trump’s return to office raised questions about his character, actions, and policy changes around such issues as climate change and immigration.
Many wondered how voters could overlook Pres. Trump’s felony convictions, while others were upset by his pardons, calling them immoral or sending the wrong message.
“I think it is kinda unfair that you can attempt an insurrection on the Capitol and then just get out completely unscathed because the President you were doing it for got elected,” said junior Jared Hawkin
Senior Amalie Gilham voiced frustration with the voters themselves.
“I am angry that 49.8% of the population saw how poorly the 2016-2020 term went, but they couldn’t just deal with having a woman in office,” said Gilham
Some users specifically voiced alarm about the President’s stance on abortion or transgender rights.
“I personally feel a little afraid,” said senior Olive Patterson. “As someone who identifies as nonbinary who also has a uterus, I am worried about my rights. I also know so many transgender classmates who would be more affected than I would be.”
Patterson is staying focused on the future and the democratic process.
“I am also reminded of how we earned our rights,” said Patterson. “I think from now on I want to know more about politics so when I’m old enough to vote I can vote for candidates that I believe in.”
