Not Again!

Choice Of Unacceptable Options

            According to the “experts” in the national media, we can expect a rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. If true it, will be the third time in a row that we will have to choose between two unacceptable nominees.

            Back in 2016, I had not decided between Hilary and Trump, and I hoped their last debate would help me make up my mind. During the debate, both candidates were rude, negative, and attacked each other with such venom that they each convinced me not to vote for the other one. I ended up voting for Ralph Nader.

            I am strongly conservative and agreed with President Trump on most of his initiatives. On the other hand, he seems to thrive in an atmosphere of conflict and chaos. He went out of his way to create enemies, both foreign and domestic. His demeanor was more that of a dictatorial bully than a diplomat. Thus, when 2020 came around, I was once again caught in a catch 22. Joe Biden was both too old and too liberal to merit my vote, and Donald Trump vowed to continue to rule as a tyrant. As I recall I once again voted for a third-party candidate.

            Joe Biden won, not on his own merits, but because he was “anybody but Trump.” His presidency justified my decision to vote for someone else. His liberal immigration policies have caused an absolute disaster on our southern border. His economic policies are naive at best. Both our allies and antagonists believe America is led by a doddering fool. I would welcome anybody but Biden – except Trump.

            It took me a while to understand why many Republicans are so supportive of Donald Trump. For the average citizen, he is the only conservative in the race, and anyone is better than Biden. It is a sad fact that politicians cannot succeed without support of one party or the other. To not support the party leader is political suicide. You can hear murmurs about Biden’s competency and Trump’s character, but they are only murmurs.

            What then is the answer? There is no practical solution. Unless one or both of them step aside, we will suffer through another four years of incompetent leadership. Trump’s ego will keep him in the race. He stayed in the last race even after he was voted out! There may be a glimmer of hope, however, for some level headed, brave advisors to convince Biden that it would serve the best interests of both the party and the country for him to retire and let other hopefuls enter the race.

            I have never voted for a Democrat for president, but I would consider anyone but Trump -- except Biden.

Frank Watson is a retired Air Force colonel and long-time resident of Eastern Washington. He has been a free-lance columnist for over 20 years.