Hints on national politics
Dear Editor:
As we begin seeing early indications for the looming political upheaval of 2026 and the electoral apocalypse of 2028, what exactly might the "Grand Old Party" have done to avert inevitable disaster?
A few simple corrections might have been prudently made.
Unquestionably, we needed to secure the southern border; however, dragging Hispanic daycare workers away from their jobs in handcuffs is NOT a good look because it validates our critics' complaints.
Tariffs don't work! Why? Because American consumers ALWAYS pay the bill... not foreign governments... not fat corporate bosses. Study your history... or at least make a trip to the grocery store! Tariffs don't work!
We needed an effective statesman like Theodore Roosevelt who knew how to "walk softly and carry a big stick!" But we did not need a blustering bully who never shut his mouth! Like hunting game in the woods, you do not want your opponents to know you're coming. You do not want them to know your plans. You don't even want your rivals to know they are rivals. You dialog respectfully rather than "poking the bear" with a sharp stick. To "love your enemies" (Matthew 5:43-48) is to live life without any enemies, allowing goals to be realized with the least collateral damage.
A leader allows others to shine... rather than sucking all the air from the room by constantly boasting about doing what no one else can do but them. A little modesty and humility (not to mention honesty) go a long way in turning foes to friends. Consider Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neal!
Empathy is a wonderful quality and should be practiced, if at all possible.
Justice is better motivation than revenge.
Do not mock people's disabilities because no one is perfect, and old age doesn't help. At least give the appearance of caring.
Meet the needs of the weakest first (Hebrews 12:13) because the strong require less care (Matthew 9:13).
When you make a mistake, admit it. Sins covered do NOT prosper (Proverbs 28:13). But if your misdeeds are too horrible to confess... then maybe you didn't need the job of President in the first place!
Thoughtfully yours,
Edwin Woolsey, Willow Springs