Happier times?

Posted

To the Editor:

I have been conservative all my life but I could not agree more with The Gasconade County Democrats Club regarding Mr. Rogers and President Trump. Tragically, civil discourse has all but disappeared under this President.

I remember watching Mr. Rogers when I was younger and so many things about Democrats remind me of that happier time.

In 2008 when then Senator Obama, speaking of Republicans said, “If they bring a knife to the fight, we bring a gun.” In 2010 when he urged Hispanic voters to say, “​We’re gonna punish our enemies and we’re gonna reward our friends​.”

Talking about fights, guns, knives and calling Americans we disagree with enemies, is classic Mr. Rogers. Who can forget what President Obama said about small town America?

“​It’s not surprising then, they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren’t like them​.”

Doesn’t that quote make you proud to be American?

Was President Obama speaking or Mr. Rogers? Who can even tell the difference? Another 2008 quote from then Senator Obama wanted voters to, “Argue with neighbors, get in their face.”

If that isn’t saying, “​Love your neighbor as yourself,​” then I don’t know what is.

I’ve written so long about President Obama I almost forgot the great unifier, then candidate Hillary Clinton at a New York fundraiser. “​You know, to just be grossly generalistic, you could put half of Trump’s supporters into what I call the basket of deplorables. Right? The racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamophobic — you name it.​​”

Not only is that uplifting and inspiring, it’s brilliant politically.

Telling millions of Americans how terrible they are will always win you votes. I am baffled that a great candidate like Hillary lost. By the way, if you don’t agree with me you’re a deplorable idiot. (I’m sorry I got carried away there, I should leave the motivational remarks to the professionals.)

President Trump needs to be more like the Democrats. In looking over my letter though, it looks like maybe he already has. Thank you.