Democratic primary

As a black man concerned about the future of both my country and my people, I want voters, especially black voters, to support leaders whose vision and plans will help us grow and, ultimately, thrive, not politicians or idealists who promise handouts or propose policies so radical that they would undermine our economy and simultaneously intensify the racial tension and class division already in existence within our country. Americans would be much better served by electing leaders who have realistic proposals and strategies, are empathetic, compassionate and genuinely devoted toward building a future that black Americans and all of the citizens of this country can visualize and embrace. Sen. Bernie Sanders — and candidates like him — can’t win, because many people, whether liberal or conservative, just can’t accept his radical agenda. His ideas sound great, but they’ll never become reality because they are impossible to achieve. He’s right about a lot of things, though. Companies have favored rewarding shareholders in lieu of boosting their middle-class workforce. Senior executive compensation packages sometimes are excessive. The insanely wealthy probably can afford to pay more in taxes. Tax cuts that hugely benefit corporations but minimally benefit their workers are wrong. Continued growth of the federal deficit — regardless of cause — cannot continue. Honoring our commitment to our veterans should be nonnegotiable. But none of these concerns will be solved overnight, and if/when progress is made, it will come through strong, effective and consistent leadership, not social democracy.

W. A. Tempton Jr., Houston