Last week, speculation began to circle that billionaire and former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg was considering running for president in the 2020 election. At first look, this seemed to be nothing new; in several of the past presidential elections, similar gossip has spread about Bloomberg’s possible candidacy, and every time he has chosen not to run. However, there’s a major difference in store for the 2020 campaign: Bloomberg is supposedly planning on running as a Democrat, despite serving as a Republican mayor and later an independent. His decision to run as a Democrat is a good thing. Because of his relatively centrist views and his love for the people, Michael Bloomberg could become the fair, capable president America needs.
Having Bloomberg in the Oval Office would benefit the country primarily because it might balance the current trend of extreme polarization in US politics. Right now, many Democrats are veering toward socialist ideas, while many Republicans are moving toward the far right. These shifts are creating a larger and larger divide between the two parties with both sides constantly villainizing one another; this polarization makes progress difficult.
However, having Bloomberg as president could potentially alleviate this toxic situation. While current Democrats and Republicans run away from each other, Bloomberg would be waiting in the middle with his socially progressive yet fiscally conservative values. The right would be pleased with his conservative approach to taxes and foreign relations, while the left would appreciate his genuine concern for climate change and gun violence. Bloomberg brings something to the table for everyone.
Bloomberg’s past political experience also shows his true love for the people he serves. He spent much of his time as mayor passing legislation to improve education in New York City, particularly in low-income areas. During his tenure, the city saw an overall increase in student test scores and graduation rate; teacher salaries rose by 15 percent. Additionally, Bloomberg supports gun control, and co-founded Mayors Against Illegal Guns. Bloomberg clearly effected lasting, positive change while in office, which is not something every presidential candidate can claim.
This change didn’t stop once Bloomberg left office, however. Throughout the current political cycle, he has donated more than 80 million dollars to Democratic candidates, in an effort to flip control of the Republican-held House. These efforts show how much Bloomberg genuinely cares about his country, a redeemable presidential character trait.
Bloomberg is a fair politician and a fair man. Though he isn’t the perfect candidate –– he supports stop-and-frisk policies in New York and has openly criticized the #MeToo movement –– he certainly checks a lot of boxes. In order to finally unite its broken pieces, America needs a moderate president like Michael Bloomberg.
