Surviving the Election

Husch Blackwell attorney Timothy Hilton does a good job on Page 15 of this edition, exploring concerns and the potential liability associated with discussing politics and the election in the work place. But let’s be honest: Do you think many folks are actually practicing this theory? Hilton makes a number of good points, and he’s offering sound advice, but the reality is, diplomacy has been thrown out this cycle. Donald Trump and Mike Pence, as well as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and the radical elements of both the left and right are out for blood this year. They don’t appear willing to stop at any level short of insanity to win.

Doubtless, much is riding on the Nov. 3 presidential election. Never before have I felt that, regardless of the outcome, America will be in uproar; there’s even talk about the prospects of a civil war. I hate to break it to you, but that war broke out in full force in Minneapolis on May 25 with the death of George Floyd and has intensified in every state since.

Amid that extreme civil unrest, coupled with the most dangerous pandemic in a century, the challenges associated with educating our children, employing and training our work force and an unstable economy, Americans will be asked in a couple weeks to choose their next president. I’m sure we’ll all be relieved when the election is behind us, but do you honestly believe the outcome will bring any form of peaceful closure?

The Succession Election

I’m looking at this election not as one between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden, but rather between the Trump/Pence team vs. Biden/Harris. To be entirely honest, I want a president, vice president and administration that can manage the country and to keep the American people safe and secure. I don’t mean to be ageist, but I cannot envision Joe Biden serving two terms as president—he’ll be 86 years old at the end of that stretch. Harris appears to be a bright woman, but I believe a president and vice president should be centered with the American people. She is so far radical left that regardless of her interest in serving, I can’t see her qualified to do so.

On the other hand, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a fan of the tweeting and combativeness of Trump, though I suppose if I’d been targeted by so many and for so long, I’d be jaded as well.

Frankly, the only true diplomat here is Pence. He’s loyal and possesses the attributes to defend against attacks, and to take the offensive when necessary. I consider him the only qualified, diplomatic and accomplished candidate in this race.

I understand Trump and Biden are at the top of each ticket, but this election stands out for the vital roles the running mates will play. Trump’s diagnosis with COVID-19 was a strong reminder of the vulnerability of any person, including one possessing the power that accompanies the presidency. This year, vice presidential picks matter.

Performance Is the Barometer

Most Republicans can see the flaws of Democratic candidates and vice versa. I believe voters should consider the track records of the candidates on the VP ticket as well and base judgment not only on capability but performance and metrics. So now we’re comparing the last four years under President Trump and Mike Pence to the preceding terms of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. I’ll just say this, the United States was in its best shape in decades before the coronavirus arrived. Despite the challenges of this odd time, the economy is strengthening again and indications are favorable for a solid rebound.

We need to consider who is capable of uniting our country, to the extent it can be united, and which ticket has the experience, character and tenacity, plus the health and perseverance, to stand strong and drive progress for a country that needs leadership more than ever.