If you consider yourself more of an “old-school” conservative Republican, you might be feeling as many of us do—exhausted by the anger, divisiveness, and the constant calls for revenge and retribution.
We’ve seen enough of the dark rhetoric and threats of revolution if a candidate doesn’t win.
Living in a “blue” state, we vote independently, but this doesn’t seem to register with Trump. His track record suggests states like ours could be targeted under his leadership—just remember the wildfires in California. When the state needed FEMA’s help, Trump’s response was to delay aid and mock the crisis, saying they should “use rakes.”
If you happened to catch parts of the Democratic Convention on Fox News, you may have noticed they didn’t always show the full speeches from traditional Republicans. Hearing these “old-school” Republicans stand up for the rule of law and put country over party made me proud. These were patriotic voices, some of whom witnessed firsthand the violence on January 6th, calling for us to prioritize America’s values.
Trump’s plans, like Project 2025 or Agenda 47, are clear. These documents, crafted by his former staffers and extreme right-wing groups, outline ideas that don’t reflect what most Americans believe in. Don’t be fooled into thinking these plans won’t be acted on. The Supreme Court has essentially handed him expanded powers, and he will use them to push policies that are out of step with our values.
I’ve worked in both union-friendly states like Washington and in “right to work” states. The difference is stark. In right-to-work states, workers have no protections—there’s no due process, lower wages, and barely any benefits. I’d rather live in a state where workers’ rights are respected and protected.
For the last 40 years, we’ve been told that cutting taxes for the wealthy would help the middle class. We know now this simply isn’t true. Isn’t it time to consider the changes Harris and Walz are talking about? A country where the economy is competitive, leading to lower costs for consumers and better conditions for workers. Where decency, respect, and opportunity are the foundation of our society. Where we can support our politicians without fear of someone vandalizing our homes.
We shouldn’t have to live in fear of another insurrection if an election doesn’t go a certain way. Do we really want to go through that again? I know one thing for sure: I am not going back!
Kimmer Duncan
Enumclaw
