Vote for Harris, hope for the best

Yes, we have a clear choice between the currently right leaning and autocratic Republican offerings and the more centrist Democrats, but in many ways, they offer little choice.

They share the “firm commitment” to Israel in spite of its horrific abuse of Palestinians which borders on genocide. They both cater to the ultra rich, the Republicans more openly, but the Democrats in more subtle ways. Trump pontificates about draining the swamp while he wallows in it. The Democrats talk of taxing the rich, but serious action is seldom seen. And both parties support a budget bloated with support of the military, and back the oil interests in spite of the fact that fossil fuels are slowly killing us.

So, where to turn? A third party? Fat chance. Our system of government is predicated on the two-party system, winner takes all. We might wistfully look at the abundance of parliamentary systems where power is shared and compromise is more in the offing. (The Protect Democracy site has an interesting article on the topic.)

And, obviously, we need to get big money out of our elections, especially via “dark money,” where the source is hidden. The cost of running for office now is ridiculous and reflects the huge sums that special interests are donating to their chosen candidates. We should know who is paying, and how much, to influence those running for office.

Full disclosure: Yes, I have my first-ever yard sign for Harris/Walz next to the Benton Street Little Library and Poetry Corner (pardon the blatant self-promotional plug) and I hope for the best because the worst is truly unimaginable.

Jai Boreen

La Conner