I was at a gathering of friends in the spring of 2024. We were discussing current events and upcoming events (the November elections). Though I was still hopeful things would go "our way" at that point, I expressed grave concerns should the election go the other way.
I suggested that if Donnie were to come to power again, it would be much different from his first term. Darker, meaner, and with little or no restraint. Unlike the first term, he would make sure to surround himself with yes-men (and women). This would free him of the constraints binding him in his lust for ultimate power during the first term. I warned of the Supreme Court's ruling on Presidential immunity would provide him sufficient cover to do largely as he wished. Further, he would not hesitate to cross constitutional boundaries. Most urgently I imagined aloud what might happen if he employed his power as Commander in Chief to seize even greater powers and use the military against enemies real and perceived both foreign and domestic. I considered what might result of a rift between local and nation law enforcement and/or military troops. Further how the Joint Chiefs of Staff would react to unconstitutional use of our troops. I hoped, but was not at all certain, military officers of honor would draw a line in the sand. It seemed possible they would refuse or perhaps even remove him from power. Either way, I found it difficult to imagine a path without blood and bodies in the streets.
At the time I shared these thoughts, it seemed a little much for folks, In hindsight, I might best have kept it to myself. Little did I realize most of this would come to pass in under a year. I'd like to say it was prescience, foreknowledge, prophecy. It wasn't. But I could see the clues and elements aligning. The bits gelled all on their own.
Evolutionary psychology tells us our wariness and tendency to imagine the worst outcomes has been crucial to our success as a species. Positivity, bravery, and daring have helped to build civilizations and institutions. However, being able to see around dark corners has helped sustain those achievements. That facility comes with a price; Peace of mind.
Perhaps I will soon ramble on about the connection between our innate wariness and our pursuit of various psychosocial structures/activities. It might offer brief respite and peace of mind.
