Our polarized nation

For the first time I can recall, I had to agree with some of Victor Davis Hanson’s and Bradley R. Gitz’s observations. Usually, I consider both of these fellows political pot-stirrers, but this time, both laid the cards on the table about the condition of the Republican Party and why the red wave wasn’t much of a wave at all.

Hanson and Gitz both admitted Trump’s misguided candidate selections and failed election guarantees. Hanson pointed out that although Dems accused Republicans of being violent insurrectionists and destroyers, the Republicans, in turn, never offered alternatives to Joe Biden’s failed policies. All potential voters got was more of the same “liberal,” “woke,” “open border” blah blah.

Gitz offered three categories of Trump supporters. The first one, “anyone but Hillary.” The second, trading Trump’s adolescent behavior for tax cuts, deregulation and conservative judges. I totally understand this logic. The third category, MAGA faithful’s worship of 45 as a “rock star” is right on the money. Donald Duck could have carried this group if he just spouted the right rhetoric.

All of this being said, take a look at Saturday’s religion section and Paul Prather’s piece on our perceived polarization. It really is a compliment to all of us, if we’ll just take it to heart. Prather tells us that we are not that far apart and that about 7% on the far right and far left are the ones stirring up all the hate and division. I have no doubt this is true. Although I think it’s sad that many ministers tell their congregants to never vote for a Democrat.

It’s a huge mistake to vote straight party and not consider the quality of the candidate or their integrity. Clarke Tucker may never get a chance to serve this state in Washington simply because there is a “D” next to his name on the ballot. I have no doubt he could really have a positive impact for the state of Arkansas. He strikes me as a young man from the same mold as David Pryor, Dale Bumpers and Mike Beebe. Intellect and sound judgment.

WADE GREEN Camden