If we’re lucky in the Opinion section, we work through our beliefs completely and support them with great arguments. But sometimes, we don’t need a deeper reason to hold our convictions. Rapid Fire is for those tweet-length takes that can be explained in just a sentence or two — no more justification needed.
Although there’s many long essays sure to come after former president Donald Trump’s victory in last night’s presidential election, right now isn’t the time for such things. In the day after results came out, the Opinion Section asks its writers for a little debrief: What just happened? What does this mean? How are we feeling? Where do we go from here?
Tomas Hinckley, Opinion Editor: I was 11 when Trump first won the presidency in 2016. I will be 23 when his second term ends. For my entire adult life, he has been the dominant factor in national politics. I’m at least hopeful that soon he will die (because he’s old, this is not a threat) and I will outlive him.
Evelyn Pazan, Associate Opinion Editor: This election is obviously the one I’ve been most present for. It is also the first one I’ve voted in. That being said, aside from political views, the participation and dedication from our generation has been encouraging. I am filled with hope that today’s young people will continue to be active in fighting for the kind of country they want to live in.
Patrick Minnerly, Weekly Columnist: I have great fear for where this country is headed, but we can’t give up. There will be much work to do in trying to stop what Trump has in store.
Dan Stark, Staff Writer: If Trump upholds his word and goes after every journalist who’s ever spoke against him, then The Stark Tank might land me in jail.