- Is it really necessary for Trump to unify the GOP?
We call ourselves the "United" States of America, but it hardly seems that way anymore. Between our contrasting views of politics, socioeconomics, religion and morality, it seems there is little to agree on. The media claims the Republican party is divided and that Donald Trump, as presumptive candidate, should take steps to unify the party, a party that tried to undermine his every step in the campaign. However, the Democratic party is just as divided, maybe more so. The ultra Left, as characterized by Sen. Sanders' campaign cannot stomach Mrs. Clinton, nor does she have any use for him.
This is not to suggest political unity cannot be achieved. For example, the differences between Jack Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson were substantial. Even though they despised each other, they teamed up to win the 1960 election. However, today it is less likely for such marriages to occur as the campaign language has become more venomous and the relationship between candidates more toxic.
Going beyond party unity, let's consider this; no matter who wins the presidential election in November, half of the country will not accept the candidate and violence will likely ensue, and, Yes, some people will move out of the country in protest. This is indicative of the intolerance we maintain for our ideological opposites.
People will inevitably blame one candidate or the other for the divisiveness of the country, but the reality is, we are no longer a nation willing to unify anymore. It is not in our nature to do so. Regardless of the institution we work in, we have been taught to be rugged individualists as opposed to team players. Companies still give preference to individual achievement over group effort, and nonprofits are run as "Good Ole Boy" clubs practicing crony capitalism. Only in certain team sports or natural disasters do Americans pull together. We no longer respect, nor tolerate, the values and opinions of others.
Why the push for unity in our political parties? It is the American media trying to create political drama for the purpose of raising revenues. The truth is, we haven't been a united country since the 1930's and 40's where we battled the Great Depression and World War II. All other times it has been facade.
Here is the reality of the situation, in 2008 and 2012, Republicans voted AGAINST Obama, not FOR McCain or Romney. This is unity by default, not because we were willing to fall in line behind a candidate.
So, when Donald Trump says he can win the presidency without a unified Republican party, he is probably right. Then again the party has never really been truly united, nor the Democrats.
Also published with News Talk Florida.
Keep the Faith!
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Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com
For Tim's columns, see: timbryce.com
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Copyright © 2016 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.
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