Recent events have had me wondering about an appropriate response to the almost unbelievable transgressions of the Trump administration.
Telling Trump voters that they deserve what they get seems cruel and only serves to harden the resolve of those who continue to support him.
Deciding to vote is an obvious choice, but denies us the ability to quickly alter the trajectory of all of the bad choices made so far.
Showing up for demonstrations certainly can make our voices heard and may help. Writing or speaking with our representatives also will help them understand the depth of our discontent.
All of these options should make our representatives understand their constitutional duties, with the hope that they may actually be able to prevent some of the pain that seems to be coming. This requires leadership, which in turn requires courage.
For the Republicans, this may mean breaking from Trump’s stranglehold on what used to be the Republican Party.
For Democrats, it means listening to the entirety of public opinion, and formulating plans that are inclusive for as many citizens as they can, which almost certainly means a move toward moderation and less identity politics.
Common sense leadership is what most Americans want, but it requires courage from all players to accomplish this.
Tom Calame, Salt Lake City
