There have been many challenges in 2020, not the least of which is the increasing division within our country. A number of unforeseen circumstances, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic, have magnified how differently we respond to crises. The combination of health concerns, social and racial unrest, and an upcoming presidential election may spur some to ask: Is America on the brink of a split?

The 2016 election was unlike any contest the nation had seen. Democrats placed an experienced, well-known political insider against a brash, billionaire reality TV star and lost. President Trump’s ability to incite emotion from part of the electorate that for too long felt ignored is what carried him to victory. And with many boundaries removed, the contest between the candidates and their vast supporters turned vicious.