Op-Ed

I am a lifelong Republican and have voted Republican in every presidential election since I started voting in 1976. However, in the upcoming election, my decision is already made, and it's not based on party lines or policy preferences. It's based on basic human decency and the respect and defense of our democracy. Let me spell it out bluntly: the candidate who isn't a convicted criminal, hasn't been convicted of sexual assault, wasn't impeached for political corruption, and didn't try to destroy our democracy by inciting an insurrection will get my vote, no matter who they are or what their political policies are.

How on earth have we come to a point where this even needs to be said? How can we, as a nation, seriously consider putting someone back into power who has such a disgraceful track record? How can we justify supporting a person whose own close associates—just 4 out of 44 of their former cabinet members—endorse their bid for the presidency?  Let's also not forget the fact that he has been criticized by key members of his own administration as being "a threat to democracy" and "unfit to be the president." This isn't about left or right, liberal or conservative. This is about upholding the very principles that define our country, siding with morality, and defending our democracy.

First, let's talk about criminality. If a candidate has been convicted of crimes, they have proven themselves unworthy of the trust and responsibility that come with holding public office. Period. It's mind-boggling that this even needs to be debated.

Next, sexual assault. How can we look our mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends in the eye and say that their safety and dignity don't matter? How can we possibly endorse someone with an extensive record of sexual misconduct and violence? How can we not instantly and vehemently discard the candidacy of someone with a conviction of sexual assault and 26 allegations of sexual misconduct? It's an absolute disgrace.

Then there's impeachment for political corruption. This isn't some partisan witch hunt—this is about holding our leaders accountable for abusing their power for personal gain. If a candidate has been impeached for corruption, they have no business being in a position of authority.

Lest we forget the attempt to overthrow democracy. Inciting a mob to storm the Capitol, trying to subvert the will of the people, and spreading false, baseless, and dangerous election claims—this is not just a crime; it's an attack on the very foundation of our nation. Anyone who values our democratic process must reject such actions unequivocally, let alone vote for someone who has proven they will subvert the Constitution and the democratic process of our great country for power.

On top of all this, how can anyone possibly vote for someone when only 4 out of their 44 former cabinet members and staff are endorsing their run for the presidency? If a person had 44 individuals who were the closest to them, who knew them intimately, understood their operational style, and whose endorsements would even be a positive reflection of their own legacy, and only 4 of those 44 are willing to back them, that should be a glaring red flag. It’s a stark indication that even those who have seen their leadership up close and personal have serious reservations about their suitability for the highest office. When such a small fraction of trusted allies are willing to vouch for a candidate, it raises serious questions about their competence, integrity, and effectiveness. 

Let’s also not ignore the critical assessments from key figures within Trump's own administration. Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper has labeled him a ‘threat to democracy,’ while former National Security Adviser John Bolton has deemed him ‘unfit to be president.’ Additionally, former Vice President Mike Pence has refrained from endorsing him, citing ‘profound differences.’  These aren't just a minor concerns — they are significant warning signs that shouldn't be and can't be ignored. They honestly should be all we need to know.

So, let's be clear: my vote will go to the candidate who hasn't been convicted of crimes, who respects women and doesn't engage in sexual violence, who hasn't been impeached for corruption, and who didn't try to destroy our democracy. It's not a high bar, but apparently, it's one that needs to be explicitly stated.

Enough is enough. This November we need to vote for basic human decency above all else. Let's not overlook the multitude of red flags before us or disregard the lessons of history.  It's time to put aside our differences and focus on what truly matters: electing leaders who uphold fundamental values of honesty, integrity, respect, and democracy for all people. Our country is at a crossroads where we must choose between descending further into chaos and corruption or rising above to restore decency and democratic principles. Let’s prioritize a commitment to basic human dignity over divisive issues and ensure our leaders represent the best of who we are, not the worst.