A few weeks ago, I took a real-word economic example and asked readers which presidential candidate would better address the issue. One reader understood that I was trying to highlight the erosion of the middle class in today’s America, but many others responded that on the basis of dangers posed by Trump, who to vote for is a no brainer.
I don’t need to be convinced that Trump isn’t a good guy. I recognize the potential dangers that he poses. But I do need to be convinced that Harris is the solution.
I’m not thrilled with how Biden was ousted and Harris put into place absent any kind of political process, especially after the DNC said the nomination would be an open contest. I’m not comfortable with being told by a campaign one day that a 79-year-old candidate is hale, hearty and fully able to continue as president, and three days later see Trump’s advanced age used in a Harris fundraising email (incidentally, from the same campaign email address).
I can hear what many of you might be saying. Those issues are nothing compared to a convicted felon and moral pigmy. But here’s another thing I find interesting about this election: Both sides truly believe that democracy is at stake. I wrote about this some months ago. We’re unified in our disunity.
Then, of course, there are Israel and anti-Semitism. Again, I’m not convinced by either candidate. I don’t care that Trump has Jewish grandchildren and I don’t care that Harris has a Jewish husband. What I do care about are their words and actions.
Both have been supportive of Israel, for which I’m grateful. I’m more concerned about domestic anti-Semitism. Trump has welcomed white nationalists into his home and Harris has excused anti-Israel activists who don’t believe Zionists deserve to exist.
Since I’m not enthused about either candidate, I figured let me see how their policy might impact my economic existence (incidentally, no reader responded how either candidate’s policies might positively impact my finances).
The truth is, I despair for our democracy. More and more I feel like I’m living in an oligarchy, in which certain companies — Amazon, Google, etc. — run our country, not our elected representatives.
Probably the most pro-democracy thing we can do is reverse the Citizens United case and limit campaign contributions.
Ultimately, as I responded to one reader, I’m glad I’m not in a swing state.
Shana Goldberg may be reached at shana@ijn.com
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