Meanderings

Presidential Debates: in times of reason and civility, debates provide an opportunity to observe candidates in action. We also may learn more about alternative policies and programs between the candidates. We may also be inspired by the candidates.

Apparently, that is not to be in 2020. One of the candidates does not know manners or decency. It is his chance to sow discord and chaos. The rules do not allow this, but he does so anyway. That being the case, debates among candidates for president ought to be cancelled. Enough has been learned to determine which candidate to avoid and which to support. It is also time to restore order to the political process and avoid chaos.

COVID Progress: COVID-19 infections are continuing. The death rate is declining so some progress has been noted. Hospitalizations are not quite so rampant and treatments are more successful. Still the disease takes a toll on our healthcare community, our economy and our social order. COVID remains a serious threat to the stability of our nation and democracy itself. It is a major disruption with enormous costs. We will feel the effect of this disease for at least a generation. Possibly more. A new normal has not yet been cast. It will be. Little by little we will see this unfold.

Meanwhile, we await an effective vaccine that will restore confidence and a healthy future for all of mankind. This is not an American disease. It is a global pandemic. Continued caution is a must.

Wear your mask to protect yourself and others. Keep social distance; it slows the spread of the disease.

Election Confidence: Trump’s political strategy is to sow discord, chaos and distrust among the populace. Messaging is thus confused, easily misconstrued, and fake passed off as factual. In reality, his messages are total nonsense and have no credibility. Because something is said does not make it true. Same with print media: because it is printed in a newspaper, that doesn’t make it factual. Just look at Washington DC’s print press; one paper has the unvarnished factual record presented daily; another paper warps facts to fit political strategy of one point of view. That is called propaganda.

Democracy is best served if information is accessible to all and studied for accuracy and logic. Discussion and comparing notes among trusted colleagues help determine the accuracy of the material. Then individuals can make up their own mind and take appropriate action.

Our democracy relies on open minds, free press, and accessible research. Voting on the basis of that study keeps us free and in charge of our own nation. Read. Study. Discuss. Vote. It is our duty.

October 5, 2020