My brother-in-law, Craig, recently passed away. He was only 68. I spent the ensuing weeks with my sister and her family. We grieved and worked together to face the challenges posed by his unexpected passing. That is what families do in crisis.
We shared many memories about Craig, all vibrant. Craig could always make me laugh. But he could also make me angry. Craig was a lifelong conservative Republican who married into a family of progressive Democrats. He was well-educated, intelligent, articulate and very outspoken. Our political discussions sometimes devolved into angry arguments. We mostly pulled back from the brink, placing family above political feud. Yet we never wavered from our convictions.
Imagine my shock when I learned from my sister that Craig planned to vote for Joe Biden.
One thing Craig and I shared was a love of history. He knew that what matters most about our Presidents is the example that they set for future generations. Our leaders define us as a nation. We yearn for decency, honesty and character. Craig knew that Donald Trump has set a terrible example on these fundamental principles.
The American family is in crisis. We are grieving and struggling with challenges. It is time for us to put family above political feud and ask ourselves, is Donald Trump an example that we are proud of? Is Trump the model we want our children and grandchildren to follow? Craig thought not. I am proud to agree with him.
Please vote.
John Clough
Auke Bay