The Case Against Donald J. Trump

​I used to joke about the Democrat’s short-term memory loss; however, during recent events I have begun to wonder about the memory of Republicans. I have watched the poll numbers with amazement as a man of questionable moral character leads in the GOP nomination. Not only is his character questionable, his political record is suspect at best. There are many reasons that Donald Trump should not be elected; only a few of them follow.
 
Moral Character
It was less then twenty years ago that Republicans attacked President Clinton for his affair, and yet Donald Trump is open about his immoral behavior and he is at the top of the polls for the Republican nomination. Nominating him would be hypocritical. Trump has committed adultery. In William J. Bennett’s book about the Clinton impeachment trials, Bennett stated, “Adultery will often reveal something about a person’s character and judgment; his prudence and judiciousness; his honor and trustworthiness; his governing abilities and stability.” The President has to set an example for the next generation. The President has moral authority and he must be able to use it to encourage children to live moral lives. Virtue is the most important aspect of political leadership, for without it there is no protection against tyranny.
 
Past Record
Trump today seems to embrace many of the Republican ideals, yet his past record is a maze of questionable ideas. Even on the campaign trail, Trump has supported universal health care. In 2000 Trump supported a ban on assault weapons. Trump also has questionable beliefs on religious liberty. Trump’s foreign policy has been mostly a show of force. He has forgotten the words of Theodore Roosevelt, “Speak softly but carry a big stick.”
 
Political Ability
Trump has admitted to engaging in crony capitalism, but that is about all his political experience. He has funded campaigns on both sides. His contributions included $6,000 to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Commission; $3,900 to Hillary Clinton; $5,000 to Harry Reid; $1,000 to Joe Biden; and $2,000 to Charles Schumer.
 
Secondly, Trump has not proven an ability to work within the political system. He has come across as bellicose. Despite the annoyance they cause, negotiation and compromise is necessary in America’s political process. The Constitution specifically set up a system that would create gridlock and necessitate compromise and debate. In such a system we need someone who can negotiate and yet not give over the proverbial farm.
 
Conclusion
From all sides, Trump is not a good choice for the Republican Party. He has betrayed the principles of this party. He is not moral. He does not have the political ability that the President needs. Trump must not win the GOP nomination.