The 2024 Election Highlights America’s Reluctance to Break Its Addiction to White Supremacy
For centuries, white supremacy has been the drug of choice for America—a toxin woven into the fabric of this country, administered in doses both blatant and subtle, keeping the nation hooked on its delusions of racial superiority. The 2024 election, much like its predecessors, has forced us to confront the uncomfortable truth: America is not yet ready to break its addiction.
This past election is a glaring reminder of how deep the roots of white supremacy run in our political system. From the unabashed dog whistles of candidates invoking “law and order” to the policies designed to disenfranchise Black and brown communities, the signs are clear. And let’s not ignore the media’s complicity—platforming candidates who spew rhetoric designed to ignite racial animus while calling it “populism.”
The electoral map still reflects the scars of a nation divided, not just geographically but ideologically. Red and blue states? Sure. But the real divide is between those clinging to the myth of white supremacy and those fighting for a more equitable America.
The Fear of Progress
Progress terrifies the establishment addicted to maintaining the status quo. The growing political power of Black women, the undeniable demographic shifts, and the expanding influence of younger, more diverse voters have struck fear in the hearts of those who equate equality with oppression. Their response? Suppress, suppress, suppress.
Voter suppression tactics, from gerrymandering to purging voter rolls, have been the GOP’s bread and butter for decades. While we’ve made strides in exposing these efforts, the 2024 election demonstrated to many that they’ve become even more sophisticated. It’s no coincidence that legislation targeting Black voters is framed as “election integrity.”
The Weaponization of Nostalgia
Every election cycle, white supremacy sells America a dream wrapped in nostalgia—a call to return to a mythical past where certain groups knew their place. The 2024 Republican candidates leaned heavily into this narrative, evoking the same “greatness” that led to the oppression of millions. The nostalgia isn’t innocent; it’s a weapon.
What they won’t admit is that their dream was a nightmare for the rest of us. But the dream sells because it offers a sense of superiority, a balm for a segment of voters terrified by change.
White Supremacy as a National Identity
The truth we must confront is this: America’s addiction to white supremacy isn’t just systemic—it’s cultural. It’s in our textbooks, our boardrooms, and our ballot boxes. It’s in the belief that Black and brown communities must “prove” their worthiness to fully participate in democracy.
This addiction thrives because white supremacy isn’t treated as the national crisis it is. Instead, it’s framed as a “difference of opinion” or a “political strategy.” But there’s no moral equivalence here. White supremacy is the very antithesis of democracy.
Where Do We Go From Here?
The 2024 election was yet another test, one that America was destined to fail. But all hope isn’t lost. This moment is a call to action for those of us who believe in equity, justice, and liberation. We must continue to mobilize, organize, and demand accountability from leaders who pander to white supremacist ideals.
Breaking an addiction isn’t easy. It requires honesty, willingness, and an unrelenting commitment to change. America must first admit it has a problem—and too many are still unwilling to do that.
As we move forward, we can’t afford to be naive. White supremacy isn’t going to fade quietly into the night. It will fight to maintain its grip on this country. But so will we. Because the stakes are too high, and the cost of doing nothing is far too great.
This election showed us exactly where America stands. It’s up to us to decide where it goes next.
