History offers hope

Last week's election outcome has been a blow for many Oregonians and Americans alike.

Our shared goals of advancing reproductive freedom, strengthening voting rights, taking on climate chaos, and generating an opportunity economy have taken a direct hit.

Many Americans are alarmed that our nation elected a person who talks about weaponizing the Justice Department against his enemies and who obstructed the peaceful transfer of power four years ago.

These are actions of a man who does not respect our Constitution, the separation of powers, or our democracy.

Trump's signature achievement in his first term was a tax bill that rewarded the richest Americans and corporations and further rigged the government against the people.

These next few years will be challenging. It's tragic – and deeply unsettling – that the MAGA playbook of hate and division won.

But history offers hope. There are many examples when motivated citizens have pulled their countries back from the brink, protecting and restoring government for the people.

In America, we have the opportunity to redirect our path every two years. Here's what we cannot do: yield to cynicism and give up.

The values we're fighting for are the right ones, and if we stay in the arena, victories will come.

Let's be gentle with ourselves in the days ahead. Decompress, find solace with loved ones, and make room for moments of joy.

This is how we'll heal from the blow of November 5, 2024. And it's how we'll find the strength to rebuild our democracy and reinvigorate our government of, by, and for the people.

Onward!

Jeff