Patriotism is about recognizing the difference between a government and the broader country, with its people, culture, and values. The frustration with a government’s performance, especially after an election, is understandable. However, turning that frustration into a blanket condemnation of the entire country is bad.

Governments are transient—they change, they evolve, and sometimes they fail to live up to expectations. But the country, as a concept, is far deeper and more enduring. It’s about the land, the history, the people, and the collective experiences that make up a nation. Losing sight of that distinction can lead to dangerous polarization, where criticism of leadership turns into a broader attack on national identity or unity.