I have a very fond memory of being about 13 years old and discussing politics with a friend of mine. He was raised in a Republican family and I was from a Democrat family, and we both felt allegiance to our parents views but couldn’t articulate them yet. It took several days of discussing, going home to research, discussing some more, talking to our parents, and arguing.
I remember this immense feeling of relief and satisfaction when we figured out the root of our disagreement: he felt that a small central government, affording more personal liberties, was extremely important to a healthy society. I placed more value on social services, like healthcare and schools. Neither of us disagreed with what the other one wanted, we just disagreed on how to get there. These conversations, and the ensuing revelation, has colored my understanding of politics and debate all through my adult life.
Anyway, today there’s a big controversy over Hillary Clinton pointing out that a big chunk of Trump’s supporters are constantly screaming ethnic slurs. Trump, the nominee of the “small government” party, wants to use his presidential powers to build a 2,000 mile wall along our southern border and deport Muslims. I cannot, off the top of my head, remember anything that Hillary Clinton has been vocal about that I strongly agree with -- I’m planning on voting for her because her speeches aren’t interchangeable with Dr. Doom’s dialogue balloons from any given Fantastic Four comic.
I knew the world was different from how I saw it as a kid. I didn’t realize it was so much dumber.
