Voters often overlook their own agency in electoral outcomes, which can significantly influence the political landscape. The case of the 2016 election exemplifies this, where the rise of populist sentiment, largely ignored by many, set the stage for Donald Trump's presidency. Even though allegations of Russian interference were prevalent, investigations found little evidence of collusion. Thus, the focus should shift from external influences to the internal dynamics within the electorate, challenging voters to engage more critically and responsibly with the political process. It's vital to consider whether elected leaders fulfill the populist promises they campaign on, rather than simply attributing election results to outside factors.