Because of the dramatic contrast, two recent Tribune public comments caught my attention.
Gabriella Miranda, a Rowland Hall student, was encouraging lawmakers to reflect the political interests of our evolving population by promoting bipartisanship and opening up avenues for equitable discourse.
Gov. Spencer Cox’s “disagree better” initiative needs legislators and the public to uphold citizens’ efforts for reform, such as Prop 4 to prevent gerrymandering, Miranda wrote. Disagreeing better requires respect for other political opinions; or at least respectful tolerance. And in the case of gerrymandering, actual recognition that the residents of Utah want legislative gerrymandering to cease.
In contrast, Kathleen Anderson, a recent Republican candidate for Congressional District 2 who did not make the primary ballot, criticized Becky Edwards’ choices for her presidential votes. “Conservatives don’t vote for Democratic presidential candidates. Period.”
Kathleen is wrong. Many Republicans, conservative and moderate, have cast their votes for candidates other than Donald Trump.
There are a litany of reasons for this, but Donald Trump’s irresponsible spending, which dramatically increased our national debt, is certainly one. Trump has proven he is not a fiscal conservative. Trump has also told us that if he is elected again, we will witness authoritarian leadership in the White House with all its ramifications. Voters, believe him and be alarmed!
Those words are the kindest things I can say about Trump, but in an effort to follow Miranda’s advice, my rhetoric needs to match hers.
Conservatives should vote for the best presidential candidate. Period.
Sheryl Allen, North Salt Lake
