Just Imagine: A Safer World under Trumppence?

While eating lunch, and thinking about Trump’s speech emphasizing the law and order he will bring to the US if elected (you’ll notice he only mentioned “freedom” once, and “liberty” not at all), I took a look at the news. The news got me thinking about what could be, if he and his supporters gain control.

First, think about how our legislature will change. Today, right after Trump’s speech, a new candidate announced for a senate seat in Louisiana. This candidate, who is affiliated with the Republican party, said: ““I believe in equal rights for all and respect for all Americans. However, what makes me different is I also demand respect for the rights and heritage of European Americans.” He also said, “I’m overjoyed to see Donald Trump and most Americans embrace most of the issues that I’ve championed for years. My slogan remains America first.”

Then, I read about the Munich shooting, and thought about how Donald Trump might fulfill his promises of making America safe from terrorist attacks. Note that many of these attacks have been carried out by legal citizens who have been inspired by ISIS, but are not affiliated with ISIS. Thus, none of Trumps immigration controls will make us safer from these attacks. So how might he make us safe. Just imagine (music swells). Armed guards inspecting everyone, at every mall, at every event, and randomly on street corners. The government inspecting which websites you visit to make sure you don’t get radicalized. Guards patrolling the streets and inspecting bags as you go to the movies, go shopping, go to the theatre. Almost every citizen encouraged to carry loaded weapons as part of the protection strategy, except, of course, if you look suspicious. We all know the types that look suspicious and we don’t trust. You know. Them.

This, friends, is the only way to get the safety, law, and order that Donald Trump promises, in the time frame he promises. Is that that America you want to live in?

I can’t speak for you, but I’d rather have a little risk in my life to retain my liberty and freedom. Donald Trump, in his speech last night, pivoted the Republican party to one of fear. He pivoted the Republicans to a party of isolationism and protection at a level not seen since Robert Taft battled Eisenhower for the GOP. He pivoted the Republicans to a party of law and order, a fear of the “them”, and a party of big government for the military and law enforcement elements.

Now, yes, I am a Democrat (since Hubert Humphrey). But I want a viable Republican party — a party with a candidate who if they win, wouldn’t destroy America as I know it. I didn’t like Bush, but I also didn’t fear he would totally change the nature of the country. I fear that with Trump.

If you are thinking about Trump, please think about how he might realistically achieve the goals he spoke about at the closing of the RNC. Think about how that would change the country. Then think about — and I’m surprised that I (a life-long Democrat, except for a flirtation with John Anderson in 1980) am saying it — think about what Ted Cruz said. Trump shouldn’t be the future of the Republican Party, and I don’t see how those with Republican values can vote for him.

I, as a Democrat, know who I’m supporting. I know who I believe can make this country safe and strong the right way. To the non-Democrats, I’ll echo Cruz: Vote your Conscience. I think Hillary is the best path forward of what we’ve got, but if you want to support Johnson (L)† or Stein (G), go for it. Just don’t vote for Trump. The present he sees is not representative of reality, and the future he’ll bring is just too scary.

†: But if you are really thinking Johnson, read this.