In light of the “Me Too” and “Time’s Up” movement, social activism is more prevalent than ever. This activism was paired with the color black which many men and women wore to the 75th Golden Globes on Jan. 7; Winfrey was no exception.

Oprah Winfrey has been an outspoken member for change throughout her life. Her acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille award at the Golden Globes made headlines as many speculated she would take the initiative to run for president in 2020. This notion has been buzzing ever since, but it desperately needs to stop.

Recently, America has seen a celebrity take the highest office in the land: Donald Trump. Trump has always been a notable man. His weekly appearances on the television show “The Apprentice”, immense hotel chains, and a possible background of sexual assault have somehow become key qualifying components for president. 

His presidency has been defined with offensive comments, cuts to programs that help minorities such as DACA, and his promises to build a wall. It’s clear to say his presidency is something America has never seen before. It’s as if Trump feels he is untouchable.

This is where a famous past begins to spell danger for politics.

At first, no one thought Trump would make it past the primaries. A celebrity in office? No way. However, his doubters were proved wrong as he was sworn into office on Jan. 20 2017. And as stated prior, major changes went underway as a result of the Trump administration. 

With rumors of a presidential ticket comprising of Winfrey, it is likely that stress will ensue with a possible election containing another celebrity ballot.

“I think it’s crucial that we have an individual with actual political background to be running our country,” sophomore Abby Moriarty said. “It’s pretty clear that just because you’re powerful and well known doesn’t mean you’re fit to run a government you may know nothing about.”

Would President Winfrey have the same cocky attitude as our president does now as a result of a past in the limelight? Would our country be so divided as it is now? Would other celebrities feel compelled to run for president as well? Maybe Kanye wasn’t joking when he announced he was running for president in 2020.

Winfrey’s presidency opens the Pandora’s box of politics. We cannot and should not send a message to our nation that money and fame can buy a presidency. What our country needs is a qualified candidate with a legitimate political background.

Now don’t get me wrong, I think Oprah Winfrey is a wonderful person and that she has really made a positive name for herself across television and media. However, I don’t think that a talk show host and a women’s magazine founder would be the best fit for a country that faces far more important issues than finding ways to lose weight or discovering new recipes. 

Where is Oprah’s political background? What are her opinions on issues such as nuclear war or tax reform? And most of all, would she be able to make a smooth transition from television personality to commander in chief of one of the largest countries in the world?

These questions remain unanswered, but one thing is clear: the last things our country needs is another celebrity in office.