Leaving the GOP

Here’s how James Comey replied to a question from an audience member in a recent “town hall” meeting as to why he thought Trump’s personal flaws should be considered by voters in this upcoming 2020 election.

I wouldn’t frame it that way. I think we should start the way I always thought Republicans said we should start—with the nature and character of the leader, and his respect for or attacks on our values, truth and the rule of law among them. That’s the most important level of American politics. Then the level down from that is important policy questions. To my mind, this question at the top level is so obviously answered.  You cannot have a president who is a chronic liar. I don’t care what your passions about tax cuts, or regulations, or immigration—I respect difference there. But the President of the United States cannot be someone who lies constantly. I thought the Republicans agreed with that. It’s one of the reasons I am no longer a Republican. I hope the American people will realize we have to start at that values level, no matter what our political background, and answer that question first. And if that’s a close question in an election, then get to the important policy differences.

And now a word to my mom, one that may have relevance to other readers:

Mom, I get that you’re a conservative, with concerns about immigration, big government, U.S. military strength, and so forth.  As you know, we don’t agree on most issues, but that’s fine with both of us; we both enjoy our discussions on a variety of political topics.  But can’t you ditch the Republican Party, like James Comey and so many others have?

We both admire George Will (you for his politics, me for his intellect), and you’ll struggle to find a more staunch defender of the conservative movement.  Yet he left the GOP, citing the party’s support for Donald Trump in the upcoming 2020 presidential election.  You may have seen his column in the Washington Post titled “Vote against the GOP this November,” in which he argued that the number of Republicans in Congress “must be substantially reduced.”

Obviously, you’re not going to become a Democrat, but the incessant lies and the abandonment of basic American values are so unbecoming of an intelligent, well educated, and fair-minded person like you.  Might be time to say goodbye?