The Foreign Service Journal, October 2016

34 OCTOBER 2016 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL be filled with some kind of magic ink that would erase all votes in favor of leaving the European Union. Where Does It End? Winston Churchill famously observed that “Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” That assessment is as accurate now as it was in 1947. But turning back time to embrace oppres- sive governments and nationalistic policies is surely the worst of bad choices for the future. We all have our roles to play to prevent this from happening. The so called “elites” in the U.S., Austria and all around the world have to listen more to the concerns and fears of the people who feel they are not being heard. We, the members of the media, have to stop reporting on political gaffes and instead focus on fact-checking the candidates’ policies. And politicians have to stop playing with the fire of populist ideas and understand that no one can trump Trump. Speaking as a foreign correspondent, these are exciting times. During my three years in your country, I have learned a lot—not just about Americans, but about my own country and my profes- sion, as well. And while I don’t know the answer to my initial question— How can someone like Donald Trump become the nominee of a major American political party?—I hope I have succeeded in delivering one key message: Americans, you are not alone in dealing with figures like him. Believe me. n We, the members of the media, have to stop reporting on political gaffes and instead focus on fact-checking the candidates’ policies.