• by Philip Rosenstein , Staff Writer, February 10, 2017

Beyond the purely political tribulations that followed the election of Donald Trump, we have seen the rise of activism in traditionally nonpolitical sectors of our lives.

From the #DeleteUber campaign to Nordstrom thrust into the center of a budding White House scandal, ignoring the divisive current political climate is impossible. It will eventually find you.

"Saturday Night Live" and late-night talk shows are having a banner year satirizing politics. And Donald Trump is a gift to comedians: The supply of missteps, outrageous actions and constitutional threats appear endless.

Further, politics is infiltrating one of the most nonideological parts of our society: sports.

There are six members of the Super Bowl-winning New England Patriots who refuse to join the team for a visit to the White House. They include: LaGarrette Blount, Chris Long, Alan Branch, Dont’a Hightower, Martellus Bennett and Devin McCourtey.

When asked about his decision, McCourtey explained: “Basic reason for me is I don’t feel accepted in the White House. With the president having so many strong opinions and prejudices, I feel certain people might feel accepted there, while others won’t.”

Throughout the professional world, Trump’s presidency is forcing companies to review their policies and approaches to their businesses.

GLG, a professional learning firm that connects executives with experts, told Red, White & Blog it received so many requests regarding how a Trump presidency would impact their clients’ industries, the company launched a free video series titled: “Business in the Era of Trump.”

In a 10-part series, the initiative covers issues such as healthcare reform, foreign policy, renewable energy and the housing and labor markets, among others. “Nothing is more at the top of everybody’s mind than how the new administration will affect their businesses,” said Richard Socarides, GLG’s head of public affairs.

Many Americans long to block out the loud and boisterous happenings of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Their wish, given the president's personality, is unrealistic. Trump is a reality show star; he thrives on attention and ratings. Steve Bannon, his chief adviser, counsels disruption as the order of the day. 

President Obama's reasoned and respectful approach to government and its citizens has been replaced. Chaos is Trump's battle cry.