In most election cycles, the choice of who Americans elect as their president is entirely their concern. As non-citizens, we usually observe with curiosity, sometimes admiration, sometimes amusement, but rarely with a sense of direct impact. However, in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, the stakes are different. This election’s outcome will reverberate far beyond America’s borders, influencing millions of lives worldwide—particularly in regions often dismissed by the “Orange Bin Laden” as “shithole countries.”
Under the leadership of Donald Trump, the world witnessed a chilling support for authoritarian regimes across the globe. Instead of standing as a bastion for democracy and human rights, Trump openly aligned with tyrants, casting a dark shadow over the global movement for freedom. His presidency emboldened autocrats, making it more difficult for reformers and pro-democracy activists worldwide to challenge oppression. This shift set back the cause of democracy by decades, emboldening leaders who saw Trump as a model of populist, unchecked power.
The global response to COVID-19 is another stark example of what a Trump-led world looks like. America, historically a leader in international crises, under Trump’s leadership stumbled, failing to coordinate a coherent global response. As a result, countries that typically rely on U.S. guidance found themselves isolated. Africa was particularly hard-hit, with limited resources and restricted access to vaccines. America’s retreat from global leadership during the pandemic underscored the dangers of a self-interested, inward-looking administration in the White House.
To make matters worse, Trump’s return to power would mean further neglect for Africa. His policies are likely to sideline Africa’s needs, not only in terms of health aid but also in trade, security partnerships, and diplomatic alliances. In a world that increasingly looks to America for ethical and moral guidance, Trump’s focus on “America First” leaves African countries at the mercy of global players whose intentions may not align with African interests. The erosion of support for democratic structures, coupled with reduced U.S. influence, could spell disaster for a continent with young democracies still finding their footing.
Kamala Harris, by contrast, has not explicitly outlined a clear policy direction toward Africa, which might seem disappointing to those of us on the continent. Her policies may not address all our hopes. Furthermore, Harris’s support of the current administration’s Middle East policies is troubling. As Vice President, Harris has been part of an administration that has allowed Netanyahu’s government to pursue actions that many view as nothing short of genocide against Palestinian civilians. The U.S.’s unwavering support of Israel under these circumstances is deeply concerning, and it is a stain on Harris and the Democratic Party.
However, Trump’s potential return promises an even graver scenario. Trump has signaled that he will do “far worse” if given another term. His unfettered support of Netanyahu could become even more unrestrained, turning a blind eye to any semblance of moderation in Israel’s policies toward Palestine. Trump has shown no hesitance in aligning himself with authoritarian figures, and a second term would be a blank check for Netanyahu and others to pursue policies that undermine peace and justice.
While Kamala Harris may not be perfect, she and the Democrats represent a commitment to the protection of democracy that Trump simply does not. The Democrats, despite their shortcomings in foreign policy, are more likely to hold despots to account and maintain a level of engagement with the world that ensures stability and at least a degree of responsibility on the global stage.
In this election, the stakes are too high for indifference. For those of us outside the U.S., a Trump victory is not just a political choice—it’s a direct threat to democratic principles, global stability, and human rights. We urge our American friends, especially Sierra Leonean Americans and African immigrants, to weigh these concerns, hold their noses if they must, and vote for Kamala Harris. The world’s peace, sanity, and democratic future may very well depend on it.