Though I have always been registered Republican (which might shock some of my closest friends), growing up and living on the left coast of America for most of my life, educated at a university, I realize that I have migrated definitely left of center. Because most of my friends are left of me, it came as a shock that—more than the fact that a Trump-character can be elected this country’s leader—the important and long lasting issue is that there is such an extreme division of fundamental beliefs in this country. This existed before this administration and will persist, long after this administration is gone.

“Elitism” has become a 4-letter word. I certainly had never considered myself an elitist when defined as a priviledged few who think they are better than all the others—I cheer for underdogs. One of the characteristics attributed to elites is that they are university (for example) educated. Since when are education and critical thinking bad things?!