Thoughts on the current exchanges in the presidential sweepstakes

Donald Trump rightfully sees and understands the latent frustration and anger built up in the American electorate. The people of this country are fed up with a non-performing economy, broken promises and even deception from the White House, a Department of Justice that fails to prosecute our laws and a whole variety of other grievances that can be laid at the feet of self-serving politicians.

Trump’s recognition of this anger is accurate and has provided a strong opportunity to gain the public's attention. However, hearing the rude and offensive comments by candidate Trump saddens me. It is sad to think that this man of obvious means and acknowledged stature should find it necessary to label anyone who disagrees with him with some sort of derogatory epithet.

It is reported that he has called women he doesn’t like, “fat pigs,” “dogs,” slobs, and disgusting animals. … It has been reported that his Twitter account has several disparaging comments about women’s looks and that he once told a contestant on Celebrity Apprentice it would be a pretty picture to see her on her knees.

The office he seeks is one of dignity and commands respect. If not respect for his opposition, at least respect for the American voters and the highest office in their country.

We have had six plus years of a self-justifying arrogant narcissist in the White House. We don't need to amplify that by electing another narcissist who, like the current president, has no reservations about striking out at his perceived opposition and punishing them with verbal abuse. There is no real war on woman but supporting a crude misogynist certainly brings an unfortunate reality to that argument.

Marco Rubio, Mike Huckabee, Cruz, Jeb Bush, Scott Walker and even Chris Christie are gentlemen by contrast with Trump.

If the voters want to see a true gentleman, that doesn't mind dealing with his critics appropriately, and keeping the focus on the really important matters in this election then all they have to do is watch Dr. Ben Carson and compare his demeanor with that of Donald Trump. The contrast is stark.

And from where this writer sits there is all to be proud of when thought of as a gentleman and not a bully.

The writer lives in Murrells Inlet.

This story was originally published September 22, 2015 at 2:27 PM with the headline "Thoughts on the current exchanges in the presidential sweepstakes."