As the nation waits to learn who will lead us through the next chapter of our shared story, there’s a moment of pause—a chance to reflect not on party lines or campaign promises, but on the qualities and values we hope to see in those who represent us. Presidential elections are more than contests of strategy and spectacle; they’re mirrors of our collective hopes, fears, and aspirations. They challenge us to ask: What kind of leadership do we believe in? What qualities do we want to see in those we entrust with power?

For me, it’s about seeking leaders who embody courage, empathy, and integrity. Leaders who listen as much as they speak. Leaders who understand that governing is not about imposing will, but about serving people—meeting them where they are and working to uplift those who’ve been left behind. It’s about valuing visionaries who can unite us across divides, who can inspire not just hope but action. Leaders who are forward-thinking yet grounded in timeless principles: justice, kindness, and accountability.

As we await the results, let’s hold tight to these values. Regardless of the outcome, let’s continue to demand that our leaders reflect the best of who we are and the aspirations of who we hope to become. True progress begins with each of us recognizing that leadership isn’t just about a title; it’s about character, conviction, and the courage to do what’s right.

Resources that I’ve been leaning on:

Dean Spade on their social media channels and their book, Mutual Aid: Building Solidarity During this Crisis (and the Next)

Kelly Hayes’ Beyond the Blame: Fighting for Each Other in the Face of Fascism

Against Purity: Living Ethically in Compromised Times by Alexis Shotwell

Mariame Kaba’s We Do This ‘Til We Free Us

Loving Corrections by adrieene maree brown