Monday, August 10, 2015

Is Donald Trump Really so Bad?

He comes across like a bull in a china shop. He's brash and quite often an embarrassment to his own party yet there are some redeeming qualities about Donald Trump. Unlike other presidential candidates, Trump is an outsider and comes with a unique perspective that despite his uncouth demeanor, many find refreshing. Likewise, because he also has money, he is not afraid of nor controlled by powerful lobbying forces like the Koch brothers. As an independent, I can support anyone. To me, the top issues are:

  • Reducing Federal Deficit: The projected 19 trillion dollar deficit is alarming and if we don't get this under control, there may not even be a country in the future. At minimum, the rate we borrow at will increase as the national deficit spirals out of control to the point where we simply cannot repay our debt.
  • Healthcare: Most republicans talk big but fail to state any specifics about how they would replace Obamacare. Although I actually supported the healthcare law because of my family history, I don't have a problem with replacing the legislation provided the new law addresses key healthcare issues. Trump clearly states his support for a single-payer system like Great Britain has despite great opposition from his party. 
  • National Security: The image we project around the world must never appear weak and the notion of leading from behind is disturbing to say the least.
  • Preserve Social Safety Net: Just because we have to cut costs does't mean we should throw out the baby with the bath water. Social Security and Medicare should be preserved but I'm willing to make compromises if necessary to preserve these institutions for future generations.

Although Trump comes across strong overall on key issues, he still faces an uphill battle winning especially in the general election. He may win the battle being bold but lose the war. However, who would have even thought he would have defied as many expectations as he has so far?

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