“Talking about politics has become impossible”: based in France for 30 years, this American takes a very critical look at the United States

In 2016, Stephanie Kidder, marketing manager for a software publisher, followed the election of the President of the United States of America during a big evening that American expatriates – Democrats and Republicans alike – traditionally organized in Paris.

“I didn't stay there long. I left the evening as soon as the Michigan State results were announced, having the conviction that Trump was going to win”confides this American, now based in Toulon.

Eight years later, Stephanie Kidder isn't sure such a night will take place. “The country is so torn that talking about politics with family or friends has become almost impossible. Before, we didn't necessarily agree, but everyone could put forward their arguments and we ultimately remained good friends. Today, we is too emotional”she regrets.

Not the moral values ​​to be President

Democrat “always”Stephanie Kidder has already voted. A month ago, online. “Unfortunately in Colorado, my last address in the United States. Suffice to say that my voice will not have much impact”she slips.

But six days before the election, she is not “not very optimistic”. The prospect of seeing Donald Trump elected again repulses her. “Besides the shame I would feel if he became president again, how can we vote for a candidate who does not have the moral values ​​to hold this office?”she asks.

And to add: “except for religious considerations, I don’t understand why women or even gay Latinos could vote for Trump”.

For Stephanie Kidder, the themes of the campaign should in any case not be those addressed in the final stretch. “Overall, the American economy is doing well. But it is true that, due to inflation, it is difficult for many Americans. However, the important issues should be health care and gun control Certainly not immigration, nor the personal attacks that the two candidates are throwing at each other.”.

After thirty years of living in France, Stephanie Kidder still feels deeply American, but she says: “I will not return to live in my country… It is so divided that it feels like it could implode at any moment”.