Landon Stokes

As of Nov. 8, in a result that shocked the entire nation, Donald J. Trump was elected the 45th president of the United States.

Despite losing the popular vote, Trump secured the support of several key states, including Florida and Ohio, and ultimately gathered 290 electoral votes, winning over Hillary Clinton’s 228.

The president-elect won’t be sworn in until Jan. 20, but Trump, in collaboration with running mate Mike Pence, has already announced his 100-day plan, which includes “…propos[ing] a Constitutional Amendment to impose term limits on all members of Congress” and a bill that he says will, “enact new ethics reforms to… reduce the corrupting influence of special interests in our politics.” However, the plan also outlines more controversial actions, including, “allow[ing] vital infrastructure projects, like the Keystone Pipeline, to move forward,” and “cancel every unconstitutional executive action, memorandum and order issued by President Obama.”

While the effects of a shift in power won’t be felt politically until next year, the result of this year’s election seems to have divided Americans more than ever. Protests and riots have broken out in multiple states (including Colorado) and many on social media refuse to acknowledge Trump as the next president using, #notmypresident in protest of the election’s result. Additionally, many citizens have started petitions on change.org calling for the rework or complete abolishment of the electoral college due to Trump’s presidential victory, despite losing the popular vote.

Trump himself commented on the college after president Obama’s re-election in 2012, tweeting in that, “The electoral college is a disaster for democracy,” and, “More votes equals a loss… revolution!” It’s worth noting that the second tweet has been deleted, and Trump took to Twitter on Nov. 15 saying, “The Electoral College is actually genius in that it brings all states… together. Campaigning is much different!”

President-elect Trump’s complete change in opinion about the constitutionality of the electoral college has only widened the gap between Americans over the recent election. Although support for him is divided, all eyes will be on Trump as he officially takes his place in the White House next January, and a nation torn by beliefs prepares for its next four years.