Hi-de-ho, my Republican neighbors.
Hello from across the aisle, can I speak with you for a sec?
As I campaign through the 14th Tennessee district on issues that affect all who live here; healthcare, education, infrastructure, jobs, I make a point to tell groups of Democrats to be patient with you, our Republican brothers and sisters.
I tell them that you are frustrated, and are reacting out of fear and anger to changes in our country, our culture, and our economy.
I tell them that we are running on our own good ideas, the Democratic Party platform that protects our elderly, disabled, and the young. We don’t need to name-call, criticize, or point the finger of shame.
I tell them that you’re good people, our friends, family and neighbors, who would never mock a war hero, a disabled reporter, or a Gold Star family.
I tell them you don’t disrespect women; lie, cheat, bully, or ridicule them from a position of authority.
But y’all, I can’t do it anymore.
At a meeting with Democrats this week, while I was giving my stump speech, answering questions, I gave my usual gentle encouragement to refrain from criticizing Republicans. Clyde, a gentleman in the crowd, asked “Why are we so afraid to call them out?”
Clyde is right.
Your party is fractured.
The leader of your party is a horrible person, and an even worse President.
I can’t make excuses for you anymore.
When you support Trump, and support candidates who support Trump, you make it clear to us what you believe and value.
You can’t claim that you are supporting the Republican party and at the same time not embrace the positions of the leader of your party.
That party, whose ideals you have cherished, is gone. It’s the Trump party now.
For just a moment, I want you to see and hear yourself through our eyes and ears. Think about the legacy you are leaving your community. Think about your children. And their children.
The emperor not only has no clothes, he’s a hateful, racist, narcissistic autocrat.
You have a choice to make. You don’t have to go full Democrat, but do SOMETHING.
“I love my country. I’ve loved my party. But this man does not represent me, or what I value. I can no longer support this man or this party.”
There it is. That or something like it.
If you can’t, or won’t, or don’t, then please don’t ask Clyde and me to refrain from calling you out.
I’m Gayle Jordan and I’m running for State Senate in TN’s 14th district.
Tennessee 2018 - Gayle Jordan