Watching the Election in the US as Someone from France: Hoping for the Best in an Uncertain World
As a young person from France watching the US election unfold, I can’t help but feel a mix of hope and apprehension. We’re all sitting on the edge of our seats, waiting to see what the future holds—not just for Americans but for all of us. These elections seem to affect everything: climate action, global peace, social justice, and even the daily lives of people far beyond US borders. It’s strange to think that a decision happening thousands of miles away can make waves right here, in France.
In some ways, it’s a feeling of powerlessness. No matter what happens, we’re left to adapt, to adjust to the next set of policies, the next set of global priorities. Part of me wonders if things will ever settle into a future where we can all work together with some stability. For now, though, it feels like we’re holding our breath and hoping for the best.
Hoping for Leadership on Climate, Even If We’re Uncertain
The climate crisis is a huge part of why I’m so invested in the US election. We’re at a critical point where every decision matters. France has worked hard to push for environmental action, and there’s a genuine sense that we’re doing our part. But we need the US on board for any real impact. They’re one of the biggest contributors to global emissions, and the policies of each administration set the tone for the world’s environmental agenda.
But as much as we hope for American leaders to take strong, definitive climate action, it’s hard to feel confident. Policies change with each election, and it often feels like we’re all on a rollercoaster we didn’t sign up for. Will the next administration fully commit to reducing emissions? Will they support international agreements? Right now, we can only hope that whoever takes charge will choose the planet over short-term gain.
Waiting and Worrying About What It Means for Global Alliances
The US election also has me wondering about the future of global relationships. France and the US have been allies for ages, with strong bonds through NATO and shared interests in areas like trade, defense, and cultural exchange. But these relationships are more fragile than they appear. Policies change, leaders come and go, and suddenly, alliances that seemed unbreakable feel vulnerable.
As a young French person, I can’t say what direction our country’s relationship will take, but I do hope for stability. It would be a relief to know we’re working together toward common goals, whether that’s maintaining peace or supporting economic growth. But as it stands, there’s a lot of uncertainty, and that’s unsettling.
Hoping for Progress on Social Issues Despite Divisive Politics
It’s not just international relations and climate that keep me invested in this election. The US is a global leader in social issues, and its approach influences conversations worldwide. As a young person in France, I’m inspired by the movements in the US that demand equality and justice. But I also see how divisive politics can make progress difficult, with debates often turning into battles rather than building bridges.
So much of the change we need—for climate, for equality, for human rights—depends on cooperation and understanding. Right now, though, it feels like we’re all at a crossroads where either choice could lead to positive change or more division. I wish I could say with confidence that the next administration will focus on unity and progress. But the truth is, like many others, I’m holding onto hope because it’s all I can do.
Looking Ahead: Uncertain but Optimistic
As I watch the election from France, I’m left with the feeling that there are no guarantees. Whatever the outcome, we’ll be dealing with its impact for years, if not decades. The stakes feel impossibly high, and yet all we can do from here is watch and hope that things will somehow work out.
I know I’m not alone in this feeling. Across France, Europe, and the world, young people are watching the US election with a similar mix of uncertainty and optimism. We’re hoping that the leaders chosen will steer us toward a more stable, cooperative, and sustainable future.
In the end, I suppose all I can do is have faith that the right choices will be made. It’s a strange place to be—so invested in a decision you have no control over—but maybe that’s what connects us all. Wherever we are in the world, we’re hoping for a future where we can work together to tackle our shared challenges. I don’t know what the US election will bring, but I’m holding out hope that it’ll be something good.