Unless something unexpected happens, it appears Donald Trump will emerge as the GOP’s nominee for President. Let’s ponder that for a moment, shall we? The person Republicans feel represents the best chance their party has of taking back the White House is a crude, bombastic, ill-tempered, hyper-sensitive bully, small-fingered vulgarian, and misogynist with virtually no solid policy positions. Their candidate speaks in broad abstract terms about how he’ll be great as President, SO much better than anyone else could hope to be…yet he has yet to tell us how he plans to reach that lofty perch.
How does he know this to be true? He’s told us so, which in his mind…and that of most on the Right…seems to be considered sufficient explanation. Few tangible policy positions have been offered, and few seem to be expected. He speaks in broad generalities intended to appeal to voters on an emotional level.
Trump isn’t stupid…he’s a highly intelligent (if distressingly crude) person with a deep understanding of what stupid people low-information voters want to hear. He provides exactly that day after day, and those more comfortable with reaction than critical thought have flocked to his side, freed from the burden of reflection and sober consideration.
For millions, it’s no longer a question of whether or not Trump is qualified. It’s about defending illogical assumptions and unproven assertions that defy logic. It’s about accepting that their candidate is an unrepentant serial liar whose definition of truth is whatever he can convince sheeple to believe. It’s about a candidate who condones violence against those with the temerity to speak out against him. It’s about conflating bigotry and hatred with patriotism and convincing Americans that what’s wrong with America is the fault of The Others- Muslims, gays, African-Americans, and others Not Like Us.
Is it any wonder I fear for the future of the Republic?
