THE POLITICAL HEAT IS WARMING

Spring has sprung,

            Fall has fell,

Summer is here,

            And it’s going to be hotter than usual!

            This little ditty takes in more than just the weather. The political atmosphere is going to get more than hot this summer; it’s going to boil over.

            The nastiness, name calling, outrageous claims and outright distortions are just beginning. This run for the White House is going to be a mud bog with both candidates sloshing about.

            But first let’s take a look at the Grand Old Party nominee—Donald Trump.

            I must admit that when Trump threw his hat in the ring a year ago I agreed with most professional observers; he had no chance! Boy were we wrong.

            Here a billionaire with no political savvy took on 17 of the best polished politicians in modern time. All were schooled in the art of achieving high offices including governships, congressional and senatorial seats. How in the world could an enigma like Trump have a chance? As it turns out the answer is simple. The American people wanted someone who spoke straight talk and not in riddles or political gibberish. And in Trump they got their wish.

            It seems every time any professional politician is asked a straight question they answer in circles and use verbalism to dodge around the question without ever giving an answer.

            People want a straight talker and in Trump they are getting a bit more than they expected.

            He says what is on his mind. And incredibly he has hit a tone with many. His position on subjects as terrorism, immigration, foreign policy and the economy is readily gobbled up by both friend and foe. Unfortunately his foes are making the most of it and it’s his own fault.

            Telling the truth is important—especially for a politician but for the most part this simple idea seems to elude most of those in public office. And this is where Trump falls into his own trap.

            On matters of importance his position is solid. But when he falls into the stupid practice of using third-grader slams against his opponents he loses ground in popularity. As an example: his discourse regarding the judge hearing his suit involving the Trump University is silly. He has powerful lawyers who are charging hefty fees to take care of the case. Trump needs to stand aside and let the pros handle the problem.

            Another example is his response to anyone taking a swing at him regarding his business deals.

            He should remember he is a businessman and business is business. Frankly many businesses, especially real estate, doesn’t have the most ethical people within their employment. Most realtors are considered “sharks” and would sell their mother for a listing!

But don’t berate all realtors. I personally know some who have dedicated themselves entirely to their clients and would never take a dishonest dime if their lives depended on it.

            But business being business the idea is to make money. No matter what business you talk about if they don’t make money you will soon find a sign on their front door saying “…going out of business sale.”

            So trump uses his ability, education and shrewdness to make deals that are profitable to him. He uses existing laws, arm twisting and charm (in some cases) to get what he wants. Who doesn’t do the same thing? It’s the ethics of the thing that bothers most people and that is why most folks shy away from deals that call into question any impropriety. But for those in business just take a look at how the stock market operates!

            People want someone who will represent their best interest whether it’s the economy, safety, security or how their kids are educated. And frankly Trump seems to have these interests as his main goal. One thing for sure, no one can call him un-American. He obviously loves this country and his demonstrated this love in countless ways.

            It seems Trump has in one way a soft belly. He doesn’t know how to play the political game. He hasn’t learned how to speak politically (talk a lot and say nothing), or stop making stupid comments regarding those considered “minorities.”

            Recently he met with the National Rifle Association. He received their endorsement and as a gun owner he forgot to ask them how to avoid continually shooting himself in the foot! If he can ever master this problem his popularity will soar.

            Frankly most of his ideas and proposals make sense. They just aren’t formatted in the proper political ideal acceptable to the power brokers. And maybe it’s time for the power brokers to move out of the way. Looking back on history we have seen our nation slowly move from personal responsibility to the idea that government is the womb. As a result our nation has lost more of its freedoms and replaced our freedom with more government intervention. Our lives are not our own. Yet we are schooled that this is the way it should be. But come along a maverick as Donald Trump and we get an insight as to how we can again be a great nation.

            I’m beginning to like this guy.