Travellers to the states will be more engaged and embraced hospitably, says former Azamara chief executive Larry Pimentel
In a record American election turnout; young, old, women, and men cast 76 million votes for Joe Biden who wins the contentious election as the upcoming 46th president of the United States.
The president-elect has promised to restore political normalcy and create a spirit of national unity representing all Americans, regardless of party.
President Trump was much closer than the pollsters predicted and nearly half the nation, or 71 million, cast a vote for the incumbent. The president addressed many policies embraced by the electorate. However, his vocal belligerent style was less appreciated, and the vote reflected that concern.
Nearly everything about this American election was an historical first. The most voters from boomers, gen x, y and z elected the oldest American president-elect. We voted for: the first woman, and woman of color, as vice president, more women than ever before to congress, and the most LGBTQ candidates. Americans showed up like never before as American democracy was on display to the world.
The results sent a clear message: while dissimilar, united we stand.
Neither party was given any mandate. This is an important take-a-way. Many Americans felt unheard. Never take the media or social media as gospel, and that includes polls. Listen both to yourself and fellow citizens. Listening is a lost art that needs refinement. More human connection is needed. Less contentiousness when we disagree must be a part of a healthy society. The USA is composed of legitimate, yet different, opinions. We need more respect for alternative views and people, not only within the USA, but with nations around the world.
We must govern together as compromise and collaboration are essential. Balance has contrasting meanings, depending on perspective. We are not the same, and alternative views make the ‘US’ in USA an important focal point of the nation’s past and future.
No one ever said democracy is easy. It can be complicated and messy with injustices and inequalities. When it does, speaking up is what protects it. We, the people, have voted for ‘US’ and the new American president is obligated to all of us. His task is complicated, but necessary and healing.
Expect a friendlier America, one that is more welcoming and less heavy-handed. Travellers will be more engaged and embraced hospitably. We encourage you to explore this diverse nation of 50 states and five territories. With over 3.8 million square miles to explore, from San Francisco and Las Vegas to Orlando and New York, the options are endless. Or perhaps a visit to Americas Hawaiian island paradise, where my family immigrated from Portugal. We are a proud nation of people representing many ethnic origins.
You will see and experience what we have always known; America is based on the unique diversity of its people. Travel to the USA more as our transatlantic alliance will be reignited with deeper connections that link us more than ever.
We welcome you to this land of many. As we unite, unite with us.