It's over, the people have voted. It is what it is, we can't change it. Instead of what-ifs, debating why people voted the way they did, pointing fingers, despair and depression, let's have a civil discussion about what to expect in the next four years.
What will be the realistic impacts of a Trump presidency with Republican control of the House and Senate? The most obvious one is that Trump will get to nominate at least one conservative Supreme Court justice, who will be confirmed by the Republican Senate. The environment and climate change are also goners.
On other issues, it's not as clear to me. For example, Trump has called for protectionist trade policies, but the Republican party has generally been pro-free trade (correct me if I'm wrong). I guess my question is, who/what will determine US policies over the next four years? The Republican party has split itself into fractions, and has been at odds with Trump more often than not. Are we likely to see more party infighting in the years ahead, or will they regroup with their president and congress majorities to push forward their agenda? Who is going to decide their agenda? Will Trump adopt the Republican party platform, or will Republican party adopt his ideas (deportations, congressional term limits, etc)?
What is going to serve as a check and balance to Trump? Will the Republican party do that with their majorities? Will there be any moderate Republicans left? Trump does not seem to understand much about the nuances of policies, and has shown very little interest in learning about the intricacies of governing. In the best case scenario, he might change, if not, he's going to be heavily reliant on his "sources", which appear to be himself, the internet, and TV. Who are going to be his advisors? Who is going to be in his cabinet? Who is really going to run the show? Mike Pence/Paul Ryan/Mitch McConnell/Steve Bannon?
I know that no one has any answers, but I want to be prepared for what's coming.
TL;DR I'm freaking out worried. Tell me how bad it's going to be.