I‘ve received lots of emails over the last few days from acquaintances and correspondents writing in the hope that I convey their strong feelings about a possible Trump nomination to those with the resources or political clout to do something about it. I thought a few representative ones might be interesting.
Here’s one, from a woman who’s politically knowledgeable but not perhaps particularly politically active:
Here is what is driving me crazy with the coverage of Trump – and FOX may be the worst on this. I am increasingly frustrated with the media’s portrayal of the fight against Donald Trump as being Trump vs. The Republican Establishment. This not only feeds and helps Trump’s narrative that he is some outside savior who represents the People agains the Party, it is also a gross misrepresentation of the truth. I am not part of “the Establishment” and neither are any of our suburban friends and neighbors, who are average people of a wide variety of economic backgrounds and ideologies – from moderately liberal to moderately conservative – all of whom are appalled by the rhetoric, character and campaign of Donald Trump. This is not a fight between Trump and the establishment – it is a fight between Trump and all clear-headed, non-divisive republicans and moderate independents who want to see someone other than a bully or a Clinton in the White House. We are Republicans who have often differed from the so-called Republican “Establishment” in our views. We are tired of divisive and insider politics. Our votes are needed for a national election, and they will not go to Donald Trump. Trump may like to think he’s pushing against the Establishment – and the media helps him by placing it in those terms – but in reality he is bulldozing over most of the electorate he claims to represent.
Here’s another from a lawyer somewhat engaged in politics:
Bill, If there is anything I can do to help you save the conservative movement, please let me know. I’d be happy to contribute my time and write a check to whatever you are working on. This is not a fight we can afford to lose …
And here’s a third, from a policy guy:
Usually John McCain is the most principled and outspoken guy in DC. Really dismaying to see that he basically hasn’t said zip about Trump since Trump said he wasn’t a hero. Also where are Cheney, W, Jeb, Ryan? Any other grandees? At least Mitt is speaking out. Why don’t these guys say they will refuse to endorse Trump if he wins??? Mitt was hinting at that today I guess. I’m so frustrated and dismayed right now. Trump is now approaching 50% in polls! This is the worst calamity in the US I’ve seen in my lifetime, behind only 9/11. Hope I’m not being overly dramatic but I’ve never been this worried about any political race ever.
This may not be vox populi, exactly–but they’re voices that deserve to be heard. Isn’t it time for political leaders to lead?
