The 2016 USA presidential candidates drew powerfully upon the notion of the American Dream during their campaigning. Gary Johnson, Libertarian Party, explained that: “I’ve lived the American dream as an entrepreneur with a construction business, and I hired and employed more than 1,000 workers—and achieved financial freedom.” And, Jill Stein, Green Candidate, recorded an album titled ‘American Dream’ when she earned her living as a folk singer.

But it was the two big hitters of Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton who incorporated the American Dream into their politics of hope. On the 9th November 2016, when the outcome of the presidential election had been decided, Donald Trump made his way to the Hilton Midtown Manhattan for his acceptance speech which he delivered in a conciliatory manner. Emphasising the need to look positively forward he declared:

“Working together, we will begin the urgent task of rebuilding our nation and renewing the American dream. I’ve spent my entire life in business, looking at the untapped potential in projects and in people all over the world.”

“No dream is too big, no challenge is too great. Nothing we want for our future is beyond our reach.”

“America will no longer settle for anything less than the best. We must reclaim our country’s destiny and dream big and bold and daring. We have to do that. We’re going to dream of things for our country, and beautiful things and successful things once again.”

The following day, Hilary Clinton expressed her own feelings and those of her supporters when she acknowledged:

“I know how disappointed you feel, because I feel it too. And so do tens of millions of Americans who invested their hopes and dreams in this effort. This is painful, and it will be for a long time. But I want you to remember this.”

“And breaking down all the barriers that hold any American back from achieving their dreams. We spent a year and a half bringing together millions of people from every corner of our country to say with one voice that we believe that the American dream is big enough for everyone.”

“And to all of the little girls who are watching this, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.”

What we can learn from both speeches is the importance of holding onto optimism and hope for the future. Despite failing at something which she had aimed at for much of her life, Hilary Clinton graciously encouraged the next generation to be optimistic about their opportunities and the importance of following their dreams.

In the winner’s corner, Donald Trump achieved an unlikely and unpredicted victory to bring about his dream. That achievement now provides the springboard and the starting line to achieve positive things for his nation and the world.