In 2008, nearly one-third of the American public tuned in to watch then President-elect Barack Obama give his victory speech from Grant Park in Chicago, after an immensely successful campaign on his part. His stance appealed to millions, advocating a message of “hope” and “change” – an uplifting speech, given the condition of our country. Even the most profound conservative couldn’t help but feel exuberated at seeing a huge piece of American history in the making.

Four years later, after President Obama was re-elected to the most powerful office in the world, there seemed to be a much mellower ambiance from the American public. For the duration of his campaign, the president averted from the same hope and change message he ran with four years ago and instead, he touted a new slogan: “Forward.” Why the change (no pun intended)? Because this presidential campaign wasn’t one that was rooted in hope and change for either candidate. Instead, Republicans and Democrats exploited fear to swing votes in their favor.