Virginia, a state both steeped in history and marked by strong political divisions, offers a unique insight into contemporary America.
Richmond: festivities and unwavering support
The journey offered by the RTS show Tout un monde begins in the majestic ballroom of the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, an emblematic building where an evening celebrating the re-election of Donald Trump is being held. Enthusiasm, bursts of laughter, and smiles light up the crowd who came to cheer the president.
It’s fantastic to still have him as president. He is against abortion, defends families, the 2nd Amendment, and America
Hundreds of supporters flock to this evening organized by Republican movements, applauding the values advocated by Trump.
“It’s fantastic to still have him as president. He’s against abortion, stands up for families, the 2nd Amendment, and America. It’s been a frightening four years with dark forces seeking to destroy our history. His re-election is a victory for those who love freedom and life,” declared an enthusiastic participant.
Among the guests, Congressman Jim McGuire, a former special forces veteran, expressed his unwavering support: “These wars in Ukraine and Israel did not exist under Trump. The world lacks leadership, and he is a true leader. On the battlefield, no matter who saves you, we are human beings capable of accomplishing the impossible together.”
A Ukrainian immigrant hopes that Trump will quickly restore world order: “The situation is chaotic. I really believe that he can end these wars, especially in Ukraine, and restore balance.”
Charlottesville: lively and worried opposition
In the college town of Charlottesville, the atmosphere is very different. Many were disappointed and alarmed by Trump’s re-election.
-“I was devastated. I hope that his ideas, like customs tariffs, will not be applied and that they will not affect the marginalized too much,” confides a student. “The way in which Trump dismisses those who contradict him threatens democracy. His policies against inclusion, women’s rights and abortion erode our fundamental freedoms,” adds another.
Its communications strategy, using social media and direct speech, profoundly influences culture and further polarizes society
Charlottesville, marked by the tragic events of 2017 and the white supremacist demonstration, embodies the fractures in America.
Melody Bowns, director of the Karch Institute for Democracy, believes that Trump is better prepared this time: “He planned his return and relies on effective organization. His communications strategy, using social networks and a direct speech, profoundly influences culture and further polarizes society.
Appomattox: place of unity and hope
The trip ends in this historic location where the Civil War ended in 1865. Today, it is a Republican stronghold with 75% of the vote for Trump.
Richard See Conor, Mayor of Appomattox, is optimistic: “This is where our nation came together. I hope we can learn from this history.”
But the polarization remains palpable. Some residents express admiration for the fiscal management promised by Trump and hope for a return of manufacturing.
This trip to Virginia illustrates how deeply divided America remains. Between hopes for change and concerns about democracy, this period acts as a real resistance test for American institutions and values.
