OIU News recently caught up with Chris Boldiston (OR77) who has been living in the United States for 27 years. We wanted to find out what it was like living in modern day America and get Chris's thoughts on the upcoming race for the White House. 

OIU News: You're in a really unique position. There are expats, then there are expats that have lived most of their adult life in the USA. Having experienced the transition from Reaganism to Trumpism, you must have witnessed many changes in terms of the country you once knew compared to the one we see today? 

A: Yeah it's kind of weird and maybe it's the same in Australia. I've been here for 27 years and there's no question things have changed over that time. The President and majority parties can have a major impact on the US population and the World. And as we know, these can be positive or negative. Even though there are strong political differences, there is still a belief in this thing called 'America' - this big experiment in democracy and nation building. That's still a common bond across people here. It spans from before Reagan to Trump and beyond, and is one of the ideals that makes America unique. 

Q: An anti-political candidate garnering votes! 

A: The thing that I've seen change most since Trump entered as a candidate is the coarsening of the political discourse. There's no way a political candidate before Trump would have lasted two minutes talking the way he does, let alone a Republican. That being said, I think there's a strong belief in the country and the good it can do, despite the recognition that in the end, by virtue of the American political system and the Electoral College, it is a small group of people who essentially decide who the next President will be. I believe that we will elect Kamala Harris as the next President. 

Q: What challenges have you faced in terms of the decline in the democratic infrastructure. Things like kindness and even the role of the Church in modern society. How has this played out over your 27 years? 

 A: I believe the decline in Americans going to church has been trending that way for a long time. However, volunteerism, community activism and participation is strong. Another thing which surprised me is the amount of money that individuals donate to causes. Not just public figures, athletes or large foundations. Regular American people are very generous with their time and money. 

Q: Coming back to Australia, what changes do you see? The Australia that you now see, albeit briefly. How are we tracking since you departed? 

A: It's changed a hell of a lot. I love being in Sydney. One of the most striking changes is the diversity of people in Sydney. It's bigger, more interesting, more eclectic and a more international city than it was 27 years ago. It's refreshing to see that infrastructure and public space is being added and developed. The water and beaches seem cleaner but maybe that is just a difference between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. I don't follow Australian politics very closely so I can't speak to changes in that arena. However, looking at the first page of my passports I see on one, a quote from Abraham Lincoln, on the other a statement from the Queen's representative in Australia. I remain hopeful that this too will change. 

Q: You came back and saw some of your mates from your year at 'View? Any real surprises? 

A: Mate, they've all got old. 

Q: No real surprises? 

A: The only thing that I would say is that when you're away from people for a number of years, and you see them again, almost immediately you find that level of comfort, honesty and mateship. It's always good to catch up with a few mates and talk about friends, families and what's happened in life since you've seen each other. That's pretty special. 

Q: Chris we really appreciate your time and your stories. We will be watching from afar with interest on the first Tuesday in November. Mind you, the Melbourne Cup is on that day so it's going to be a big day all round. Thanks again. 

A: Thanks.