To An Unknown Trump Supporter

There are lots of theories circulating as to why Trump has such a hold on his supporters. For the people in the House or Senate, I think the bond is the twining of money and power, a bond so strong, they can’t break free. This essay is not directed toward them. They’ve already shirked their duties. They’ve already done their damage. Instead, this essay is an outstretched hand to those outside Washington who wear red hats but not masks, who wave flags in defiance of the radical left, who listen to Trump and believe what he says.

I am not a follower of Trump but I am not a radical leftist either. I believe that supporting a woman’s right to choose is not the same as being pro-abortion. Most importantly, I believe you and I have much more in common that what divides us.

This morning on the radio I heard one of you say that you are only friends with fellow Trump supporters. Why should I be friends, you asked, with people who call me names, who call me stupid? This may surprise you but I absolutely agree! For years I’ve told my children to walk away from bullies and to surround themselves with people who bring out the best in them. I believe in kindness. I believe in listening with an open heart. I believe that people can disagree but remain friends.

I also believe in science. I believe in quantitative facts. I get emotional, but try to make descisions based on truth. The truth is people are dying in our hospitals and in our streets. The truth is Covid was not caused by Trump, but from the beginning, though he knew otherwise, he downplayed the seriousness of it. He has actually said as much on tape. If he were really worried about causing a panic, he wouldn’t say there were caravans of people coming across the border. He would address the protests in our streets with words of calm and comfort, not guns and teargas. The truth is Covid is a serious public health crisis. The truth is people come to our country in hopes of finding a better life. The truth is people in the streets are hurting. The truth is a real leader brings out the best in the people he leads. He respects them and calms them with facts. He doesn’t poke fun. He doesn’t stoke anger or provoke violence. He tells the truth and offers hope. It will be hard but we are Americans. We will work together and prevail.

I haven’t much more to say except that I’m sorry anyone has called you names or made you feel less than. If you’ve read this far, I thank you. I believe we could be friends.