The many policy issues in November’s presidential election pale in relevance compared to the stark difference in character between the presidential candidates.
Donald Trump has a long reputation as an unscrupulous businessman – for which he now infamously bears the description “convicted felon” – and as a notoriously unfaithful husband. Most importantly, as president he violated his oath of office (by his actions seeking to block the certification of the 2020 election) and by his inaction (failing for three hours to quell the Jan. 6 Capitol riot that he fomented).
In contrast, Kamala Harris has spent her entire professional life in public service, first as a prosecutor, then as California’s attorney general, subsequently as a U.S. senator, and finally as vice president. She applied her legal training to prosecuting criminals. She earned successively higher elected offices. And she accumulated four years of experience in diplomacy and in decision-making as a close adviser to President Joe Biden.
Critiques of her public life address policy choices – which every officeholder makes. They do not focus on character flaws or failures in the performance of her sworn duties.
The president is the acknowledged leader of our country, the chief executive and the commander-in-chief. Because of America’s economic and military strength, the president holds an especially prominent place in international affairs.
I want the president with the character to command universal respect by exemplifying our highest personal and professional ideals. That is why I will vote for Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States.
Dick White
Durango
