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Opinion
The following is presented as part of The Columbian’s Opinion content, which offers a point of view in order to provoke thought and debate of civic issues. Opinions represent the viewpoint of the author. Unsigned editorials represent the consensus opinion of The Columbian’s editorial board, which operates independently of the news department.
News / Opinion / Letters to the Editor

Letter: GOP abandons common sense

By Mike Spence, Vancouver
Published: December 19, 2017, 6:00am

After a spirited political discussion, a friend asked me, “You used to be such a conservative. What happened?”

I answered that I’m still a conservative, pro-life and a Republican, but I can’t put politics first. Although I can’t bring myself to change political parties, I can’t support a president who speaks falsehoods. I can’t support a narcissistic misogynist and sexual harasser. I can’t accept the politics of racial division. I can’t countenance a serial braggart who strikes back like a fifth-grade bully.

I fear the ignorance of a president who won’t listen to the brightest and the best, especially in foreign affairs. I despair of the damage his populist simplicity and flawed/venal appointees will cause to our environment, national treasures, economy and to the most vulnerable: the poor, ill and uneducated. I grieve that his personality, actions and speech have divided America. Divisions by race, religion, culture and economic status have been created and deepened, perhaps irreparably.

In my life, I’ve sinned, screwed up, antagonized and annoyed many, so I’m in no position to claim to be holier-than-thou. Nonetheless, my religious beliefs tell me not to accept the moral hypocrisy of putting pursuit of political power above character.

Have I abandoned the causes that I’ve supported? I think not. The GOP and its principles have abandoned me.

We encourage readers to express their views about public issues. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for brevity and clarity. Limit letters to 200 words (100 words if endorsing or opposing a political candidate or ballot measure) and allow 30 days between submissions. Send Us a Letter

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