How many times have you heard people declare that when it comes to voting, they always “vote for the best person.”
While it sounds nice, it is never quite clear exactly what that means.
Is it the person who does enormous amounts of volunteer work? Is it the person who adopts stray dogs to save them from being euthanized? Is it the person with whom you would like to have a beer and shoot the breeze? While those are all laudable attributes, it is no indication of how effective that person would be in office, or most importantly, what policies they would champion once elected.
It is somewhat unique/rare in the world of politics that a person can combine solid policy with likability and the ability to communicate positions on issues to the masses. Abraham Lincoln was one. His ability to articulate policy on highly charged, emotional issues under immense pressure from multiple sides arguably saved the country from certain destruction. Ronald Reagan, the “Great Communicator” was able to explain his vision for the American economy and the nation’s future in a way that connected with Americans of every region, class and demographic. Senator Daniel Patrick Monihan could espouse positions and call out painful realities with a smile and delivery that oozed intellect. All three had one thing in common – a firm policy doctrine that they were able to put into effect for the country.
While likability is certainly an advantage for those elected officials fortunate enough to have it, it is not a guarantee of success. Perhaps the best example is former president Jimmy Carter. Renowned for his decades long charitable works, most notably with Habitat for Humanity, his policies while in office were absolutely disastrous for the country resulting in double digit interest rates, high inflation and the Iranian hostage crisis, among others.
In 2024, due in large part to social media, opinions on elected officials and candidates for elected office are pumped out by the millions daily with the press of a button. Nothing illustrates this better than the 2024 campaign for president, or more specifically, Republican candidate Donald Trump. Few people elicit the type of emotional reaction that he does. Those who love him are unwavering in their support, those who don’t are usually apoplectic in their disdain.
The negative feelings are almost always generated by personality, something that was said, or appearance. The good news is, none of that matters when it comes to serving in office. The only thing that will have a direct impact on people’s everyday lives and the country’s standing in the world are the policies he embraces. Who can argue with a platform of secure borders, low inflation, a strong military, low taxes, support for the Constitution, law and order, energy independence, parental rights and personal freedom? In the end, that is all that matters.
As I tell people when the subject of Donald Trump comes up, I’m not voting for a prom date for my daughter, I’m voting for someone to put this nation first, create opportunity for all Americans, and protect the country for which nearly one million soldiers gave their lives.
Posing the question to all patriotic Americans who are on the fence; when it comes to voting on November 5; do you love your country more than you dislike Donald Trump?
The answer is obvious.
