As Donald Trump’s election certification approaches, the most constructive action for rational Americans who oppose both him and the MAGA ideology is to recognize that foolishness should evoke embarrassment.

Trump has managed to thrive politically by convincing individuals to overlook this fundamental truth. He’s transformed individuals like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Georgia’s Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, and himself—public figures who consistently spew nonsense—into voices that are oddly regarded as credible.

After the New Year’s Day terrorist incident in New Orleans, Trump absurdly linked the attack to immigration when the perpetrator was a U.S. citizen. This was not only foolish but also counterproductive. For a president-elect and the officials who support him, this should be profoundly embarrassing.

Trump has made foolishness permissible, which it should not be.

When Greene speculated that wildfires in California were caused by Jewish space lasers, it wasn’t simply a slip up; it was an act of foolishness that should have marked the end of her political career.

When Kennedy suggests that people should consume bacteria-filled raw milk, he should be mocked out of the country. Instead, Trump has appointed him to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is utterly foolish and should cause deep embarrassment for Trump.

Yet, here we are, anticipating Trump’s return to the White House and his installation of misguided MAGA supporters into key roles with unwavering confidence and no sense of shame.

Restoring a sense of shame could be a powerful strategy against Trump

That last point is crucial: “without shame.”

We all make foolish choices at times. There have been numerous occasions when I’ve said something foolish, made an error, or commented without full understanding. Undoubtedly, it will happen again. Regardless of the setting, I would never claim to always be the sharpest person present.

The difference is that in those moments of folly, when I realize my misjudgment, I feel a sense of embarrassment. Whenever I have to correct a written piece or acknowledge I’ve overstated something, that feeling of shame is present.

A sense of shame should be what keeps our actions in check—or at least it should have been.

If we allow foolishness to thrive publicly, it will only propagate

Trump, lacking this essential feeling of shame, has gone to great lengths to undermine that societal safeguard.

How else can one account for politicians rallying behind him—a convicted felon, a habitual liar, a person found liable for sexual abuse—for the third time? The choice to reinstate someone like Trump in a position of immense power should be a source of embarrassment, yet it isn’t.

This situation leaves many who oppose Trump—whether due to his policies or personality—feeling helpless. I understand that sentiment.

However, I believe the most effective way to regain agency during the era of Trumpism is to cease tolerating foolishness.

Foolishness isn’t about intelligence; it’s a choice to remain ignorant

Before proceeding, let’s clarify what I mean by “foolishness.” I’m not referring to a person’s level of education.

In fact, many individuals surrounding Trump boast impressive educational backgrounds yet display extreme ignorance.

Foolishness involves confidently discussing subjects one knows nothing about. It encompasses the readiness to assert something factually incorrect while refusing to acknowledge one’s errors. It’s the lack of curiosity that leads our leaders to embrace ridiculous conspiracy theories over verifiable facts.

These are traits that should invoke embarrassment.

It’s time to hold officials accountable for engaging in foolishness

Since Trump’s initial presidential victory, some individuals have hesitated to criticize such behaviors.

The prevailing argument seems to be: “Well, he managed to win over people, so we shouldn’t label him as foolish for fear of offending his supporters, whom we must strive to understand.”

This approach hasn’t been particularly effective. In fact, it seems ignorance has grown stronger.

As we brace for the new challenges a potential Trump administration might introduce, it’s time to stop accommodating those politicians who have chosen to ignore factual reality.

No One is Required to Keep Ignorance Comfortable

When Trump attributes a domestic terrorist attack by a former U.S. soldier to immigrants, we need to call it what it is: ridiculous. It’s not simply a matter of different viewpoints or politely disagreeing.

The reality is, “If you refuse to acknowledge basic truths, you’re just being foolish and deserve to be disregarded.”

Making people feel ashamed for believing nonsense or blatantly lying is not unkind; it’s a way to help them improve.

We don’t let our children get away with spouting nonsense or deeming the truth optional. We correct them to prevent the chaos that Trump contributes to and perpetuates.

For the Sake of America: Let’s Make Ignorance Distressing Again

This year, I urge you to hold politicians accountable for their foolish statements. You may think your voice doesn’t matter, but the combined impact of all our voices can remind society that willful ignorance is looked down upon.

After all, we tried a different approach, and it only led to further decline.

By allowing foolishness to thrive, we only open the door for more ignorance. Do a favor for America—ridicule stupidity at every opportunity.