
We Visit Florida Every March to Watch the Jays at Spring Training, but Trump Changed Everything
Every March, the tradition for many baseball enthusiasts, including the author, has been to head to Florida to watch the Toronto Blue Jays during their spring training. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically with the presidency of Donald Trump, altering the experience of visiting the Sunshine State.
The article reflects on how Trump's policies and the political atmosphere he fostered have changed the feel of Florida, a state often considered a swing state in U.S. elections. The author discusses how the presence of Trump's influence, from his Mar-a-Lago estate to his impact on local politics, has turned what was once a purely enjoyable baseball trip into a more politically charged visit.
The narrative delves into the tension felt by visitors who find themselves in a region where political divisions are stark. The author notes that the usual excitement of watching the Jays play is now tinged with an awareness of the surrounding political climate, making the trip less about relaxation and more about navigating a polarized environment.
The piece also touches on broader themes of how political changes in the U.S. can affect the experiences of international visitors, highlighting the interconnectedness of sports, tourism, and politics. The author concludes by expressing a hope that the joy of baseball can eventually transcend the political divisions, allowing fans to once again enjoy their annual pilgrimage to Florida without the overshadowing presence of divisive politics.