Presidential election: The uncommitted plan could backfire
Re: “I’m voting “uncommitted” on Super Tuesday to give Democrats a choice,” Feb. 25 commentary
I’ve always admired and respected former Rep. David Skaggs. And I’m sure he knows his history. So, I have a question for him. To save the country from another Donald Trump presidency, he suggests that President Joe Biden “should step aside” from the 2024 presidential race and give another Democrat a chance, just “as Lyndon Johnson did in March 1968.” Well, Mr. Skaggs, just exactly how did that 1968 election go for the Democrats? — Paul Chessin, Denver
As an 80-year-old lifelong Democrat, I must disagree with David Skaggs’s request that I vote “uncommitted” in the Democratic primary election to help convince President Joe Biden to “face the political realities” and “step aside, as Lyndon Johnson did in March 1968” and open the race to a Democrat who could defeat Donald Trump. I would point out to exrep. Skaggs that Richard Nixon (R) won the 1968 election.
Trump is only three years younger than Biden, and like Biden, he is most likely too old to be running for president.
But, in reality, barring unforeseen circumstances, Biden and Trump are going to be the Democratic and Republican presidential nominees. Voters should pick the one of the two who most represents their beliefs and values.
Look carefully at the vice presidential candidates since they have an excellent chance of becoming president. Not voting or voting “uncommitted” in the primary or for a third-party candidate in the general election means other people get to make this decision for you. Based on that criteria, I’m voting for President Biden. — George Burson, Louisville
Unfortunately, both parties need a real choice. The commentary glosses over the failures of Biden and his administration:
• the terrible exit from Afghanistan and breaking promises and leaving behind Afghans who assisted the U.S. forces;
• allowing Russia to invade Ukraine when a show of force before it happened would have been the correct move to deter Putin;
• the disaster of a border situation and the consequences of millions of “mirgrants” entering the U.S. to seek asylum or work illegally.
Trump did many good things, but I wish we could move on beyond both Biden and Trump. As one who lived through the Jimmy Carter administration, I am sad to say that Biden is even weaker. His health and failing mental issues are a serious concern. Heaven forbid he has to resign or die in a second term, and Vice President Kamala Harris is next in line. She laughs and smiles at serious issues, making me question her intelligence. Just imagine what Vladimir Putin would attempt with her in charge.
Save the nation. My wish is that Biden does the right thing for the nation and steps aside, likewise with Trump. Neither should be our choice for the next president. I pray both parties can work behind closed doors to get both to move on and then put forth some better choices — maybe people that have excellent records and experience outside of government — with better personalities as well.
Where is Ronald Reagan when we need him? Best president in my 77 years, hands down. — Joseph Moore, Denver
While I can certainly understand where David Skaggs is coming from with regard to his decision on voting “uncommitted” on Super Tuesday, I have to wonder, ultimately, what is the point. I agree that President Joe Biden, while having accomplished some truly good things while in office, has some definite baggage. But the reality is that, come November, the choice will be between Biden and Donald Trump. From what I can see, there really is no other Democrat out there that has the name recognition and gravitas to potentially win nationwide. If Mr. Skaggs has some names of superior alternatives, I would happily and eagerly listen to him!
Paul Ruzicka, Aurora