OP-ED: Trump is the antithesis of GOP leaders I worked with
My love of politics and government started when I was at Washington High School in the 1970s. A teacher encouraged me to get involved in politics, so I ran and won a position as local Republican committeeman at the age of 18. I stayed involved with Republican politics in college and it led to my longtime career.
Over the decades, I was lucky enough to serve as an aide to U.S. Sen. John Heinz, U.S. Rep. Tom Ridge, as an appointee in the administration of President George H.W. Bush and as secretary of legislative affairs when Ridge became Pennsylvania’s governor.
During those years, I witnessed my bosses consistently considering and acting on what they believed was best for their country. The common thread was respect for others and love of country. The Republican Party I knew stood for decency. While advocating for economic growth, it remained compassionate for the needy and concerned for the disadvantaged. GOP leaders respected our veterans and stood up to dictators around the world. They embraced our democratic system and never undermined the results of free elections and the legitimate transition of power.
Donald Trump is the antithesis of that. Hate is his daily obsession. He ridicules the disabled and disadvantaged. Love of country is subservient to love of self. Trump embraces the flag yet ridicules and tears down our democratic institutions. It is unimaginable that the Republican nominee for president ridicules our heroes, slights the patriotic service of our veterans and dismisses the advice of our top military leaders. This is not the Republican Party I supported for decades and I have no choice but to reject its nominee in November.
Over the history of American politics, we have veered to the left and we have veered to the right, but we have never left the rails. Trump has no philosophy except what is good for him and his desire for power over others. Many of his closest former advisors say he is a dangerous narcissistic egomaniac. These are Republicans not willing to sacrifice country for another chance to yield influence in a misguided administration. Trump fires anyone who stands up to him. Knowing this, who will serve in Trump’s administration? Likely it will be self-interested sycophants and inexperienced campaign operatives. The country will be off the rails.
I believe that Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden have respected our democratic institutions and have done what they think is best for the country. Intentions mean something and character counts. We may veer a little left, but we will not leave the rails of our democracy. Consider the risks in this election.
K. Scott Baker is a Sewickley resident.