Not for Trump

To the Editor:

I am a senior citizen, veteran, husband, father, and registered Democrat. I’m not one to blindly toe the party line. I think for myself and voting for a Republican presidential candidate would not be a new experience for me. If I vote Republican, however, it will not be for Donald Trump.
I know Democrats and Republicans who support Mr. Trump’s world view and appreciate his “tough talk” persona. Although they have tried, they cannot convince me that he should be the leader of the free world, and the person to keep my family safe and me out of the poor house.
In my 70-plus years I have met individuals who talk and act like Mr. Trump. Growing up they were in the school yard; as a young Marine I served with one or two; and during my years working I met more. They all shared similar characteristics: they talked big, they talked tough, they couldn’t be depended on, they never delivered, and they couldn’t be trusted. What makes Mr. Trump any different?
Trying to sell me on his business acumen as the way he’s going to make America great again begins from the false premise that America is not now great. Capitalizing on the fears and insecurities of the vulnerable, as he does is dishonorable. Moreover, holding up to ridicule and name-calling those in his own party who have given years to public service is unseemly and in my opinion a substitute for lacking a substantive understanding of the issues this country faces.
These are a few of the reasons Donald Trump will not earn my vote; none because of political ideology but because his candidacy is contrary to three ideals which make this country great: Truth, Justice and the American Way.

WILLIAM T. SMITH

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