Why he can't vote Republican

Editor,

A friend once asked what it would take for me to vote a straight Republican ticket. My reply caused him to rethink his devotion to that party.

I told him it would require his party to adopt a platform that completely embraced the most admired actions or words of Abe Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower:

Lincoln for his efforts to eliminate slavery, although it is still somewhat tolerated today with the current minimum wage law. Also for his statement that labor is superior to capital for without labor there would be no capital.

Teddy Roosevelt for deeds and words that demonstrated his belief that protection of the environment is vital to our very existence. For his peace efforts that led to his Nobel Peace Prize. For his trust busting actions due to his commitment to serve all Americans, rather than just the business titans of his era.

Eisenhower for the following statement: "In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military industrial complex."

It appears to me that my friend's party now adheres to practices exemplified by Warren Harding, whose presidency relaxed prosecution of anti-trust violations, provided tax cuts for the rich, lost the White House china in a power game, and surrounded himself with many individuals of dubious character.

Most historians regard Harding as the worst president ever, but who knows? Now everyone knows why I cannot vote the Republican ticket.

Peter Daniels

Polson