By Naomi K. Bonman
Despite the harsh reality of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States, there is still a little praise to cheer about. California showed up and showed out in electing the state’s first new U.S. Senator in 24 years. State Atty. General Kamala Harris has become the first black politician in history to represent California in the Senate. This the start that we need in turning over the House of Representatives and Senate from the Republicans. Not only is Harris the states first new U.S. Senator in years, but she is only the second black woman ever to be selected to the Senate since 1999.
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the Harris-Sanchez Senate race was the first major test of California’s “top-two” primary system, an experiment in democracy that California voters approved in 2010 in an effort to reduce the highly partisan influence of the Democratic and Republican parties and give independents and moderates more clout in the political process.
Like many Californians, I voted for Harris, and not just because she was a Black woman but because I believed in and loved her vision that she has for not only for the our state but for the Nation. I admired her speeches and I feel a little comfort knowing that she will be representing us in the Senate. Even after the news of our 45th President selection, she gave us even more comfort and perseverance through her words.
“Our ideals are at stake right now, and we all have to fight for who we are,” she said in a speech far more somber than most victory addresses. “I believe this is that moment in time for our country, where we are collectively being required to look in the mirror, and with furrowed brow, we are asking a question: Who are we? In California, I believe the answer is a good one: We are a great country.”
The country has survived horrible presidents in the past and this one is no different. We can still preserve and achieve our greatness. Let’s not let fear hinder us, but to push us further into achieving what we need to achieve.