A lot of people acting like Trump is a uniquely American problem because of some integral flaw in the character of Americans. Folks sure aren't looking too close to their own right wings, which is how America got where it is now.
There is a general rise in stupid awful fascism around the world, and slagging off Americans as particular idiots isn't going to help you get ready to fight your own fascists. Especially when you realize they might be your neighbors or your kids.
Replying to @quinn@social.circl.lu
It's worthwhile to ask why so much of humanity is falling for this con right now. I suspect climate and a deep, even subconscious fear of there not being enough, of scrambling for survival against our neighbors.
Whatever is it, looking at America or Britain or even Russia and chalking up all the problems to the low character of the people isn't going to get you ready for this era of turmoil.
Look for solidarity, never give up on human rights, even for Americans.
Replying to @quinn@social.circl.lu
@quinn True, just over a third of people voting for the far right is high, but not that much higher than in other democracies. Ineffective opposition (mostly fighting each other) is also common. What is unique about the US is another one third of adults: the people not voting at all, so not voting against it. That quiet consent is much smaller in other countries.
Replying to @mkoek@mastodon.nl
@mkoek it's not even consent, America makes it uniquely had to vote. Election day is a normal work day, anyone can purge voter rolls, even marking ballots is hard and confusing, and you often have a small books worth of decisions to make. Or a large one, in California.
Replying to @quinn@social.circl.lu
@quinn On the other hand, I read that most states have early voting or voting by mail, so plenty of time. It’s a strange phenomenon that so many people don’t do it.
Replying to @mkoek@mastodon.nl
@mkoek it's progress but that's pretty new and it can still be complicated and overwhelming. Also anyone can purge voter rolls by challenging them. Personally, I've been deregistered 5 times. No idea who or why.
Replying to @quinn@social.circl.lu
@quinn Yeah the “register to vote” thing is admittedly weird. Other countries simply send everyone over 17 an invitation to come vote.