Pre-Trump Thots

Let me say up front that I did not vote for Mr. Trump.   I am hopeful that his Presidency will be a success, such that in 4 years, a majority of Americans will see an improvement in their life and liberties.  I am not confident that he will be a success, but remain hopeful.  He has already done some things that I like (questioning “One China”), but also made some questionable moves (see his Cabinet Appointments). 

Mr. Trump does not strike me as Racist or Homophobic, nor are his supporters “Deplorable”.   His past actions (not words) indicate he is quite open minded, and as a businessman, he was known for being in favor of gay rights.   He is certainly “non-PC” and I think that is a breath of fresh air from all the drivel we usually hear.  I see hope in his desire to make the government more efficient, and I truly hope he succeeds in making it smaller.

But on the downside, his past (and current) actions do not convey the ability to apply discretion when necessary.  Hopefully he will appoint minders to his social media habit.  He does not appear to have the mentality to bring disparate people together in a common goal, a flaw he shares with his predecessor.  I also worry that he will act brashly on the international stage, harm useful interactions with allies and opponents alike, and perhaps become more embroiled in foreign entanglements.

But what worries me most, even more than an unconventional Trump Presidency, is the reaction of the “establishment” to the victory.  There was the predictable Hollywood and Big Media gnashing of teeth, the threats of moving to Canada, Kate McKinnon (as Hillary) performing a sad, pathetic “Hallelujah” on SNL right after the election.  That is all typical, emotional overreaction to their unexpected defeat.  But the Democrat (and some Republican) members of the Political class seem to have gone off the deep edge in questioning the legitimacy of the Trump Presidency.   Do they not see that what makes the Republic work in the long run is the peaceful transfer of power?  Even if that transfer is to someone you don’t like?  It does not mean you have to agree with his plans and policies, but to challenge the legitimacy of the electoral process is a short drive from trying to do away with our form of government.

Rep John Lewis made a stupid statement about Mr. Trump not being a legitimate President.  Rep Lewis has done some courageous and valuable things in the past, but that does not mean he is not foolish in the present.  The inauguration is a celebration of the peaceful transition of power, not an affirmation of agreement with the policies of the incoming administration.  Rep Lewis should have known that has actions will only succeed in widening the divide that currently exists in the country.  Mr. Trump was correct to call him out, but of course he went too far in his response (see “lack of discretion” above).

Even if Trump is a horrible President, the country has survived horrible Presidents before. Some will say we just did.  I wish Mr. Trump well as he becomes President, and for all of our sakes, I hope he becomes a great one.