Wave the flag in 2024, fact-by-fact, one person at a time, to protect our republic

Even now, late on the political calendar, I encounter seemingly thoughtful individuals -- mostly self-identifying Republicans -- who state:

“Donald Trump is a truly appalling individual, but … ” and then suggest there is merit to one of his “issues” or “policies.”

“Stop, please, respectfully,” I respond immediately yet cordially. “There is only one issue in this election -- the integrity and future of American democracy. All else follows from that. Kamala Harris is the pro-democracy candidate.”

If the individual continues on their path, I’ll oblige willingly, but only after citing essential, unavoidable realities:

·????? Trump orchestrated a violent overthrow attempt of the US government, denying the result of a fair national election and obstructing the peaceful transfer of presidential power.

·????? Trump made more than 30,000 documented false or misleading claims while president.

·????? Trump tried to extort a foreign head of state for personal political gain.

·????? Trump enriched himself and his family unlawfully.

·????? Trump has been convicted of 34 felonies, and is the defendant in coming trials.

·????? Trump is a sexual abuser, as determined by a court of law.

·????? Trump, just two weeks ago, desecrated Arlington National Cemetery and mocked again all those who served and serve today in uniform.

They know all of this.?

Kamala Harris is a serious-minded public servant dedicated to the Constitution, the rule of law, and the best interests of all Americans. She understands and is committed to combatting the threats to our beleaguered political system.? She and her party will advocate for and protect American democracy. The wide enthusiasm that has greeted her candidacy – and her dramatic support among independents and Republicans – is evidence of the popular thirst for the defense of democracy.

Trump is amoral, contemptuous of public institutions, corrupt, and allied with dictators. His destructive conduct and loathsome character cannot be obscured or mitigated by yet more villainous lies and disinformation.

Tragically, after nearly a decade of Trump, political engagement has never been more toxic, less appetizing, and more alienating. Three-quarters of surveyed Americans wish to avoid the presidential election, let alone discuss it.?

My own, direct approach is but one avenue. Every person, and every situation, is different. ?I urge others to be their own advocate, know their strengths, and choose how and when they want to relate and communicate about the future. Perhaps with these steps in mind:?

·????? Be open, respectful, empathetic.

·????? Try to find common ground.

·????? Focus on values -- theirs and yours.

·????? Leave, as best you can, your emotions aside.

·????? Know the issues that are most personal to you, prepare for them, and address them personally.

·????? And yes, just the facts. Repeat and insist on the verifiable truth, including the hard truth of the recent past. Try to resist hyperbole.

To all citizens, I urge action, urgently.? See what’s possible.?

In 2024, this is what flag-waving looks like.

Republicans with Integrity TED Conferences Georgetown University's Institute of Politics and Public Service POLITICO Live Political_Science Harvard Kennedy School The Aspen Institute E. J. Dionne Jonathan Capehart Karen Tumulty Asa Hutchinson John Giles Haley Voters for Harris Ruth Ben-Ghiat Ken Rudin Danielle Allen Stephen Goldsmith The Atlantic The Lincoln Project POLITICO CQ and Roll Call Republicans for Harris Joe Trippi John Bridgeland Stuart Stevens Austin Weatherford Setti Warren Matthew Scoble Democracy Fund @adamkinzinger Morgan Brown