Pat Levin, a 95-year-old lifelong Democrat, confronts fears and uncertainties regarding the political landscape as she faces the upcoming 2024 election. Reflecting on her fears, Levin states, “It’s left me very afraid… Afraid of the future. Afraid of everything.” The prospect of former President Donald Trump potentially reclaiming the presidency adds to her unease, alongside the defeat of Democratic figures like Senator Bob Casey and Congresswoman Susan Wild.
Having witnessed significant historical events throughout her life—including World War II, the Vietnam War, Watergate, and the September 11 attacks—Levin acknowledges that this current political moment feels uniquely concerning and threatening. Her sense of alarm isn’t only about her future; she fears for her loved ones and the generations that will follow her. “I want to fight,” Levin expresses, highlighting the urgency she feels to combat what she perceives as rising oppression.
In these reflections, Levin illustrates the struggle many older voters experience as political values shift. Previously discontent with Republican victories, none rattled her as profoundly as the current state of affairs with Trump’s return. While some Republican neighbors suggest she needs to calm down, Levin finds little comfort in their reassurances, trusting her instincts about the serious threats to democracy and social norms.
Revolving around Levin’s thoughts is the observation that current political leaders appear disconnected from the historical lessons of moderation, civility, and democratic norms. “I see a man who is not— or a regime now—who is not paying much attention to our history and our norms,” she observes. This sentiment is echoed across her conversations with constituents and fellow voters in the battleground landscape of Northampton County, Pennsylvania, where Levin resides.
In this politically crucial county, Levin finds herself among voters characterized by deep divisions and contrasting aspirations for the future. Levin’s fears are juxtaposed against a growing optimism expressed by others, including 75-year-old Marvin Boyer, a lifelong resident and community activist. Boyer remains hopeful, stating, “I always think positive and hope that our better angels will, you know, resurrect.” However, he is also aware that Trump’s influence on politics fuels divisiveness and fear within communities.
Conversations among fellow partisans reveal sharp contrasts, exemplifying the shifting sentiments among voters. For example, at gatherings where aged activists engage in spirited discussions often filled with opposing views, the essence of personal connections and community bonds remains evident. Participants in these dialogues span a diverse range of ages and perspectives, with many voicing their apprehension about the political climate.
Voter turnout statistics reveal crucial insights relevant to Levin’s concerns. The demographic of seniors over 65 proves to be a reliable voting bloc, demonstrated as Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris split their votes evenly in national polls while Trump edged Harris among seniors in Pennsylvania.
Amid these dynamics, Darrell Ann Murphy, 84, underscores the sense of urgency many seniors feel navigating the current political climate. She emphasizes her worries about reproductive rights and the implications of Trump’s tone on societal norms, expressing a shared determination among friends to organize voices through movements like the “quiet resistance.”
Even as personal connections shift, common ground emerges. We see characters like Pamela Aita, a Republican Trump supporter, share perspectives with Levin and Murphy, showcasing the idea that bridging divides is essential despite differing views. “I don’t have to have dinner with Donald Trump… Just keep me safe, keep my grandkids safe,” she summarizes her priorities.
These discussions encapsulate the reality of political division in today’s society, with all participants demonstrating a need for shared dialogue and civility, even in an age of mounting disagreement. “It’s awful,” Murphy laments about the fracturing of family ties and friendships precipitated by today’s polarized politics. Nevertheless, while the future remains uncertain, Levin, Boyer, Murphy, and their peers express resilience committed to identifying causes, becoming more involved in their communities, and ultimately striving to foster change. As the voice of dissent continues to manifest in various forms, Northampton County and its residents remain at the forefront of the overarching national conversation, defining the complex interplay between hope and despair in a divided America.
