Editor, Gazette-Journal:
I had a wonderful mentor for a short time in my early work life. His simple advice was if you wait for the perfect choice you will never make a choice because perfection does not exist. We can strive to make the best informed choices and then proceed with all that life brings our way. When we avoid making choices, we lessen our power to create possibilities for ourselves.
Undecided, reluctant, or discouraged voters may be thinking about sitting out this election because neither presidential ticket speaks to all their needs or issues. Political discourse is often so abusive that many choose to become disengaged. I feel overwhelmed by the rancor as well, but believe this is the most crucial vote of my lifetime. The choice voters have in this presidential election is between two extremely different visions of our nation’s future and the result may determine our path for many years beyond a four-year presidential term.
I do not believe that we are a failing nation or a nation in decline, as former President Trump declares at his rallies. I share the optimism and hope for the middle class that Kamala Harris speaks of. She has been criticized for rethinking her stance on some issues. Serving four years as vice president brings a wealth of experience and detailed information that should cause reflection on prior policy approaches. Vice President Harris solicits and considers differing opinions in order to make informed decisions. Trump’s MAGA movement appears to value total loyalty to the former president above all else.
Bipartisanship needs to resurface in order for our nation to thrive. I hope that every voter chooses to vote in this election. The candidates’ websites can provide helpful information if you are undecided. Mathews County enjoys a high percentage of voter participation. This is one of many reasons to be proud to call Mathews home.
Lynn Maynard
Mathews, Va.