American politics is no stranger to negative ads, anger, hatred and racism. However, I had been hoping that were were moving away from that sort of evil. However, the Republican campaign has been stirring up quite a frenzy at its events. Recently, it has been reported that people at Republican rallies have been calling Obama a terrorist, making racist remarks to a black cameraman, and even calling out “kill him” in reference to Obama. It must be noted that the Republican campaign is not officially encouraging racism. But, as I write this, nothing is being done to rein in that sort of behavior.
The evidence seems to be that McCain is not behind this trend. He is gererally regarded as an honorable man and his adopted daughter is black. MCain also seems uncomfortable with personally attacking Obama. He has even been condemned by the right for not bringing up the Ayers connection at the debate. Hence, I do not think that he intends for his campaign to take a racist turn and I think her would prefer to run a cleaner contest. However, little (or nothing) is being done to rein in and condemn such behavior. McCain should take a clear a stand against these sort of remarks and respond to them in no uncertain terms. He is a better man than this current trend indicates and, I believe, the vast majority of Republicans are better than that.
It is no doubt tempting to tap into religious and racist fears. However, this leads us away from the people we can be and should be. McCain can show what sort of man he really is by taking firm action against this hateful trend.
I used to think you were a good man, John. Show me that I wasn’t wrong.
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