America, the Beautiful

On November 5, 2024, America chose a new path. A path once traveled on four years prior. A path dictated not by the influence of one political party or ideology, however more navigated by the whims of one American businessman. This new way forward has never been more disruptive, or starker compared to any past presidents. Six months into this new path, many Americans are asking the question who is responsible for this confusion and chaos. Well, we all are.

Yes, all of US citizens are responsible for the state of our country whether we voted for this new administration or not. Our republic democracy gives credit and blame to all of US collectively and equally. We are responsible for this path and what or who gets in its way.  

So, what kind of America do we live in now?  Well, we are fat and skinny at the same time. Most federal government sponsored research is gone. All government sponsored radio and television is gone. Most food subsidies are cut. Almost all federal foreign aid programs are gone as well. Medicaid has decreased by roughly one billion dollars lessening care to the most vulnerable citizens. On the reverse side, taxes for the 813 billionaires who call America their home have decreased. However, with so many cuts, you would think our government would be smaller. Quite the contrary, our debt ceiling has increased. Our deficit has also increased. Our military has increased. Our homeland security has increased. Yet, we do have fewer illegal immigrants and from the latest jobs numbers we have fewer jobs to boot. America, the beautiful.

How is America’s soul holding up with virtually 100% cuts to foreign aid? We now prioritize America over other countries. OK, America First! I understand. Let’s keep our taxes in America and spend them on US. The only flaw with that is we are paying more for foreign goods because of self-imposed tariffs. So, our taxes are lower, yet everything we buy is more expensive.

We are a country in the process of eliminating the Education Department signifying a consolidation of education funding to the states. Will block grants make smarter students? Will block grants increase critical thinking? Will block grants help special needs students get the assistance they desperately need?

With cuts to science and cancer research, what exactly are we saying about our stance on science? Does it mean our country does not believe in science anymore? Does it mean cancer research is not a well enough endeavor to cure?  

Are we prepared for the next natural disaster? Is FEMA ready for the next hurricane? Is anyone ready for the next rain bomb? Perhaps we do not need catastrophic federal disaster insurance since we have cut most EPA regulations blaming natures extremeness on the one thing we cannot control, nature. Yes, America, the beautiful.

In this new America, loyalty seems the highest form of Americanism. Agreeing with a leader and accepting the leader will do the right thing blindly seems a bit cultish instead of democratic. Have we lost our democratic way too? 

Well, we did vote for this form of representation. Not quite 50% of us decided to go in this direction yet 100% of us are on this whirlwind train which makes all of us responsible for everything happening in our country now and for the next three and a half years. We are all to blame or to praise.  

So, what kind of America have we become? Regardless of what side you bat for, we have all collectively created the state of our country and we are the only ones who can change it. America, the beautiful!

Farmer Banks Helfrich teaches gardening monthly at Florida Blue Clermont and on his seven-acre, 15 different garden farm in the Clay Road District of north Clermont. Farm tours are every 2nd Sunday. Call Banks for more information. (407) 616-9720