Quote from this article: “Why do you think so many otherwise intelligent people like Dr. Ben Carson, Phyllis Schlafly, Geraldo Rivera, Rudy Gulliani, Sheriff Joe Arpaio, Newt Gingrich, Lou Dobbs, Ann Coulter, Bill O’Reilly, Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh have good things to about Donald Trump?"
Whoa. That is a pretty scary list. some of these people are even more reprehensible than Mr. Trump (Ann Coulter? Rush Limbaugh?) ... If this is a list of people that Brother Stoddard respects as intelligent, good sources of information, that is all I need to know about his opinions. I wish him well, but respectfully submit that he and the readers of Meridian Magazine can do better. The contortions many LDS people are going through to make themselves feel okay about voting for Trump is really sad. Didn't President Hinckley ask us to "Stand for Something?" Stand for virtues like honesty, civility, morality...One cannot support Trump and stand for these values at the same time.
Helene WMay 9, 2016
My problem with voting for Trump is simple. He has no core values. He is the poster child of narcissistic personality disorder. I was married to someone with a personality disorder. If you believe nothing else about this election, believe this: If you vote for someone with a personality disorder, we will lose our democracy. It will not survive. Go to bpdfamily.com and get on their message board. Read what is really happening in these familes. Pick up a good biography of Chairman Mao and see how this plays out in the real world. Stop believing in illusions. Trump is exactly who he says he is.
Mike in Escondido CaliforniaMay 4, 2016
Mike in Escondido Calif. 1
I have a hard time understanding the idyllic world view of some people. Yes we should select good righteous leaders...now deal with the reality of what we face in these elections!
Barring some ‘back-door deal’ by the Republican Insiders, we have only two choices,
HIllary, who should be in jail, or the self serving, narcissist Donald Trump.
Please, get beyond your myopic prejudiced opinions. Who of these two will hurt the country more?
It’s as simple as that.
If you don’t like Donald, should you vote for Hillary in protest ???
That’s about as stupid a position as I have ever heard, second only to this one,
“I can’t vote for Hillary and I won’t vote for Trump so I won’t vote at all”.
What is the matter with this kind of thinking?
People, please open your eyes, WE HAVE TWO CHOICES and one of them is going to be in the presidency!!! Yes, you may have to chose the “lesser” of two evils, but you had better exercise that choice because you definitely won’t like the “worser” of the two evils.
GoingTo100May 2, 2016
I, like the author, have not committed my support to any one candidate although my support will not go to the democratic choices.
Interesting how all the Trump naysayers in these comments and everywhere else cannot give specifics to why Trump is so evil. They only get caught up in the emotional hype the media is portraying about him. The fact that the media hates him so much is enough reason to atleast consider him as a potential candidate.
I very much appreciated this article and had come up with some similar conclusions on my own. Thanks Mark for the additional insight.
LindaMay 1, 2016
Yes, these are the last days, and unfortunately American will get the President that we deserve, just as we did in the last 2 elections. It just comes down to the fact, that we, as Americans, need to vote. I will vote for the lesser of the evils, because if I don't vote, then I don't have the right to complain. And complain, I will! So, if Trump becomes the Republican nominee, I will vote for him. Anyone but that Hilary woman!
Oliver MMay 1, 2016
The options available to vote for this year are deplorable. I have tried to see the pluses of voting for Trump as the author is suggesting. The problem with this is that a similar list of pluses could be posted for Adolf Hitler or Benito Mussolini. Yes, each had some strengths. And some of the arguments advanced in this article to consider Trump echo what was said of these fascist dictators. Sure, Trump (like all the candidates) wants to do some good. The problem that is overlooked in this article is that you must also consider the fatal flaws of the person. Regardless of what they want to accomplish a narcissist bully like Trump and these others are derailed from significant good by their own destructive mannerisms. Let's not forget that the end does NOT justify the means. And the likelihood that Trump will be truly "presidential" as he promises is pure nonsense. He is not a saint; and likely never will never be one. He has and will continue to bully and demean anyone or group that gets in his way. I have seen this before in the infamous characters of WWII. In fact his mannerisms mirror those of Benito. If you want to get a laugh just look at some old posturing footage of Benito and see who it reminds you of.
DERWINApril 29, 2016
This is how I see it in all simplicity...We have two highly polarizing choices: Clinton or Trump? If anyone can make change in the Washington maching...who of the two can/will do it?
We know from 20+ years of history that we will get the Washington politics as usual with Clinton...anyone who dares argue that is delusional. I am not even convinced that Trump can make change, but if we HAVE to roll the dice in favor of positive change...then the only one of the two CAN BE Trump.
As LDS, we are taught to value humility and even submissiveness. So we tend to see his "megalomaniacal" arrogance as a prideful abhorrence. But IF change is to be made in Washington, it will have to come from someone as flagrant and aggressive as Trump! Most successful business CEO's fit this category (Walsh, Jobs, Gates, Bezos, Zuckerburg, etc.) It will take this sort of character if there is any real shake up to occur in Washington. I would wager Trump's corporate America efficiency over Clinton's politics as usual history for real change...if any.
LauraApril 29, 2016
I'm perturbed that LDS people such as Brother Stoddard and several of the commentators here are justifying Trump because they think he's not that bad--or at least not as bad as Hillary. That's not the way God has asked us to analyze our potential leaders' qualities.
D&C 98:9-10 says:
"Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn. Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil."
That's a pretty clear statement. Do you really want to mourn because of the wickedness of our leaders? I think the fact that we're likely to have two immoral people to choose from for president is another sign of the last days. We don't have to assume that one is better than the other. They are both rotten. Which one you choose is your personal decision, but for people who are LDS to say that Trump has great qualities and is going to be a great leader for us is disingenuous at best and dangerous at worst. The Book of Mormon has many examples of when the leaders were wicked and the people suffered. We are not always going to be blessed with righteous leaders in this country. We simply can't afford to be deceived in these latter days.
Joey RussellApril 29, 2016
Donald Trump has narcissistic personality disorder. He is mentally ill. Just look up the symptoms.
As someone who was married to a man suffering from a closely related personality disorder, you should be warned. The symptoms listed are nothing compared to the chaos these people cause when they enter your life. Giving someone like this the most important job in the country would destroy everything we value.
We the people can solve our country's problems. We do not need Saviour Donald. Indeed, our looking to him is a sign we are abdicating our own responsibilities as citizens.
CameronApril 28, 2016
If Trump is elected then the US deserves everything that they get
SDApril 28, 2016
Like "GoTrump" said, GO TO HIS WEBSITE AND STOP SAYING HE DOESN'T HAVE DETAILS. I have heard people criticize his speech because of lack of details. How many details can you get into an hour speech covering all the issues the country faces.
I have heard members say Romney spoke for the church. No, he would be the first person to tell you he spoke as an individual. He can not and would not speak on behalf of the church. His rant was his own sincere belief...right or wrong.
People did not expect Reagan to show strong leadership. He was an actor, nothing more. Kennedy was too young to be a strong leader, the Catholic church would tell him what to do.
You ask, who does the Lord want us to vote for? He wants America to be safe and lead the world toward peace. Trump is the only candidate who can slap D.C. to their senses and clean out the muck. Yes, he has been on both sides of the isle, that is why he knows how to clean it up. He is a mega business man. I think he has the potential of being a mega president.
You will hear D.C. scream and shout and pitch a fit because Trump will tear up their game.
Tim WelchApril 28, 2016
Trump is the embodiment of a narcissistic personality disorder. Look it up on Mayo Clinic's website. And, if you think the diagnosis is bad, the prognosis is much worse.
Jean HolyoakApril 28, 2016
Who ever the Republican nominee is, we have to vote for him. We need to look at the bigger picture. We need to get conservative Supreme Court Justices in place or there will be liberals for the next several years. They will construe the Constitution. Religion will be taken out and taxed and all sorts of injustices will be placed upon people of Faith. I feel this is the most serious problem looking at us today.
Gary SevilleApril 28, 2016
"He was like one of those characters in an 18th-century comedy meant to embody a particular flavor of human folly. Trump struck me as adolescent, hilariously ostentatious, arbitrary, unkind, profane, dishonest, amoral, cruel, loudly opinionated, and consistently wrong. He remains the most vain man I have ever met. And he was trying to make a good impression. Who could have predicted that those very traits, now on prominent daily display, would turn him into the leading G.O.P. candidate for president of the United States?"
Money and power are drugs that he cannot get enough of.
Pattie SkousenApril 28, 2016
Well written article and well thought out. My question is, who does the Lord want us to vote for? We need His help in making this important decision that had BIG consequences. I have read the previous comments and feel that you all make valid points; but who is the one the Lord wants.
Jim KinseyApril 28, 2016
One of the main reasons I support Trump is that he is not beholden to anyone. No special interests control him. Perhaps that is why so many of the mainstream politicians want to get rid of him. Like Howard Cosell, he says it like it is. No political correctness. We finally got a majority of Republicans in the Senate and the house and they have done nothing to rectify the problems our country has. That includes the LDS legislators. I have no confidence in the current administration nor do I have much confidence in established career politicians. I know of no group or individual who is, at this time, trying to change the status quo. Obama's main desire, it seems, is to destroy America. Hillary is so entangled in corruption and outright illegal acts that to elect her would be a disaster. Talk about Gadianton Robbers. Perhaps it is time for another revolution. A clean sweep to get rid of the scoundrels. The only trouble with that is that it really only lasts for a generation or less. Read the Book of Mormon if you don't believe me. The only real solution to all our problems is the Second Coming of the Savior. Pray for it. I do, daily.
JaneApril 27, 2016
I think a lot of people are whistling past the graveyard with Trump. We know who he is, and he's plainly unworthy of support. (For all the reasons you already know, but are choosing to ignore.)
Beyond that, he inconsistent and incoherent on the issues, and well, on everything. He represents a grave threat, particularly in foreign policy matters.
Im a conservative and have always voted republican, but I will never vote for Donald Trump.
Kevin PriceApril 27, 2016
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this article. There are also many more admirable traits in Trump that too many choose to overlook. Yes, he is no saint, but neither are any of the others. I am afraid we will have to wait until after the Second Coming before such a candidate will be accepted on the ballot. We need someone who loves and will fight for America.
Rondi PetersenApril 27, 2016
This election year we are definitely very limited on who to vote for. There is no great leader. However, we have to look at what is out there and then make our decision as to whom we feel will take care of us the best. Our country will be in big, big trouble if Hillary is elected and continues the 8 years of Obama which we have had. Bernie Sanders--are you ready for socialism? Ted Cruz is a great choice, but if he isn't the Republican runner for President Donald Trump will get our vote. We don't know yet who he would have for Vice President which will help in our decision making. However, Hillary and Bernie are out of the question. Maybe we should all just move.
GoTrumpApril 27, 2016
For those questioning Trump's ability to articulate his plan properly, why don't you just go to his website? It's DonaldTrump.com
Good grief this infuriates me when anyone states he doesn't have a plan when all they have to do is simply look it up. His plan and stances are outlined well I think. No one has an exact answer to every dilemma facing our nation. By the way, the article missed one of the main reasons to support Trump: he won't be bought at any price. He's got my vote.
MoracleApril 27, 2016
Many LDS may have been turned against Trump when their Church issued a comment about Trump's desire to stop bringing in un-vetted Muslims until they could be checked -- in defense of the 1st amendment. Thinking the statement delivered was against Trump, instead of defense of the 1st. If so,they were mistaken, because the Church does not take sides in political campaigns and was surely only speaking to prevent discrimination by government against religious organizations. If Trump had said "Stop Syrians and other terrorist-spawning nations...", the Church would most likely have remained silent, and might even be in silent agreement.
Gary DennisApril 27, 2016
Some thoughts: - There is a higher purpose in this political arena, and the players - whether they win or lose - they are fulfilling their purpose - possibly partly to wake us up to the many problems in our country and throughout the world - possibly to motivate us to do something about these problems rather than continue in our seeming confusion and complacency.
Consider: "One basic principle has the power to resolve the problems of the social marketplace - SUPPORT THE SOLUTION INSTEAD OF ATTACKING THE SUPPOSED CAUSES. Attack is in itself. .leading through fear to intimidation, coercion and, eventually, moral corruption. The solutions that have power are the ones based at the level of acceptance rather than condemnation.Successful solutions are based on the powerful principle that resolution occurs by fostering the positive, not by attacking the negative." Dr. David R. Hawkins, M.D., PhD - "Power vs Force"
"Merely to resist evil with evil by hating those who hate us, and seeking to destroy them, is actually no resistance at all. It is active and purposeful collaboration in evil that brings the Christian into direct and intimate contact with the same source of evil and hatred which inspires the acts of his enemy. It leads in practice.to a denial of Christ and to the service of hatred rather than love." Thomas Merton "Passion for Peace; Reflections on War and Nonviolence.
"You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete." Buckminster Fuller
Finally - The world is the way IT IS, and the reasons are to be found in the consequences of all our past choices and actions - individually and collectively. All things in this world are constantly changing, evolving and unfolding according to a grand Divine and Eternal plan for the good of ALL mankind. We cannot change WHAT WAS - WHAT IS - WHAT IS MEANT TO BE in consequence of our present and future beliefs and actions as part of this grand Eternal plan. We can only help make the world a better place by seeking a better way - by seeking causes that have the future effects that we desire - not just achieved solely but collectively among all mankind. We must come together in like mind and inspiration to establish causes that improve the conditions of all mankind with a new and positive paradigm - and one that is designed to heal the adverse effects of our past choices and actions.
Seek the promptings of the Holy Spirit - you will be guided into all truth - even truth found in the current political arena.
Love -
Lynette MillsApril 27, 2016
"If, to please the people, we offer what we ourselves disapprove, how can we afterwards defend our work? Let us raise a standard to which the wise and honest can repair. The event is in the hand of God." George Washinton
Somehow, Donald Trumps name does not fit in here anywhere.
Tom JohnsonApril 27, 2016
I think the reason that Trump is being so successful is that he is not a career politician; as a businessman he calls things as he sees them without all the concern for political correctness.
Marti SApril 27, 2016
I have problems with Trump. He hasn't yet released his income tax return. The IRS says he can. His Clothing line is manufactured in China. He says Americans make too much money. He hasn't disavowed those who have made death threats. He imports foreign workers for his resorts because he doesn't have to pay them as much. Trump University was clearly a fraud and there are 3 lawsuits against Trump for that. He is very vengeful. His actions toward Megyn Kelly is an example of this. He makes large contributions to politicians and then calls them when he "needs a favor." He's bragged about this. Making fun of someone's disability is clearly immature. The veteran organizations still haven't received most of the money he raised. I;m sure there's more, but I can't think of them right now.
K HendersonApril 27, 2016
Not all Mormons dislike Trump. In fact Trump will receive votes from many Mormons in the US if he becomes the republican nominee. I agree with the comment, "Trump is our last hope." Mitt Romney has his own problems. He has been very unfair to Donald Trump.
Red StateApril 27, 2016
What people don't understand is that its not about Trump. It is about the anger and resentment many many people have toward the corrupt system we have. The Republican party is not conservative these days and they absolutely refuse to respond to those who are. If it wasn't Trump it would be someone else. Lots of Utah Mormons need to wake up.
herm olsenApril 27, 2016
"True" Republicans will do anything, say anything to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Romney was exactly right in his scathing criticism of Trump, and now the Right-Wingers must repudiate the previous nominee in order to support this current disaster - The Donald. He violates every Gospel principle of decency, courtesy and humility. Stings a little, doesn't it?
Tad M BeroApril 27, 2016
Wonderful article. Mitt Romney should've said the same thing but he decided to join the people that threw him under the bus 4 years ago on top of disappearing after the first debate that he won by a landslide. To me Mitt was the most overrated. Trump is our last hope.
Jim B.April 27, 2016
AMEN.......Who has destroyed this country for the last twenty six years??? The establishment politicians are the ones who has ruined our country not an outsider.......Mister Trump will be great for our country....He is a business man and knows how to lead .......... Does not need any money or contributors to corrupt his decisions...
Debbie BakeApril 27, 2016
Thank you for your article; I needed a good laugh this morning. I feel refreshed, more educated about someone I have never found "charming." If we stop demonizing people, perhaps we could see through all the hype.
KOApril 27, 2016
Mr Trump has evolved out of the jungle of NYC to be protective of his family and holdings, is a great father so report his children and ex-wife, works tirelessly (a work ethic he learned from his father), is a workaholic as reported by his children, actually graduated well from Wharton (not an easy task), has built an empire, is well liked by those who know him, hates lying and liars....he doesn't lie, will punch back anyone who hits him, has a huge heart for those who suffer (I've seen this personally) and try their best and fail, and a global view of world economy that is realistic and knows the players and what is fair, still believes creating jobs and markets are the best plan, given our monetary system, He will do what it takes to bring America into the safety zone without extravagant vacations every couple of months. A vote for him is a vote for a Father to our Country....because all of America will become his family and we all know he takes care of his family.
Harold RustApril 27, 2016
I really like how Mark addresses issues in a toned-down and relatively non-emotional approach. I tend to agree with him in general, but still find it upsetting that our country (at least a sizeable number) are chasing after the ultimate populist--one who promises he can fix everything for everyone and yet doesn't have a single specific outline of what that will mean exactly. It parallels the mania that follows a rock star who can't even sing or an athlete who may be great at one sport but is otherwise a true jerk. It seems to me that Trump has focused almost all media attention on hype and hyperbole with very little layout of comparison of specific plans or public policy. The latter is what needs to be debated nationally so that we the people are giving input regarding one of 3 or 4 specific policies regarding legal and illegal immigration rather than solely whether we like the guy who screams they are all thugs or the gal who says she loves them all, especially if they aren't legal. That is why I don't like Trump and I just wish we had one of the 4 or 5 best presidential candidates out of the 14 who started out to now be in his delegate position rather than have it be Trump. The election process would be so much more aligned with what this country needs.
CharlieBrown2292April 27, 2016
Very fair approach to the issues at stake. If a "B-movie" Star could win the nomination and make a great President a few decades ago, Trump's election may indeed not turn out to be as bad for America and the rest of the world as so many fear. At least, his business experience and deal-making skills could prove helpful in turning the U.S. Economy around and making America more influential in international matters...maybe a risk worth taking with Hillary being the only alternative!
Comments | Return to Story
RickMay 18, 2016
Quote from this article: “Why do you think so many otherwise intelligent people like Dr. Ben Carson, Phyllis Schlafly, Geraldo Rivera, Rudy Gulliani, Sheriff Joe Arpaio, Newt Gingrich, Lou Dobbs, Ann Coulter, Bill O’Reilly, Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh have good things to about Donald Trump?" Whoa. That is a pretty scary list. some of these people are even more reprehensible than Mr. Trump (Ann Coulter? Rush Limbaugh?) ... If this is a list of people that Brother Stoddard respects as intelligent, good sources of information, that is all I need to know about his opinions. I wish him well, but respectfully submit that he and the readers of Meridian Magazine can do better. The contortions many LDS people are going through to make themselves feel okay about voting for Trump is really sad. Didn't President Hinckley ask us to "Stand for Something?" Stand for virtues like honesty, civility, morality...One cannot support Trump and stand for these values at the same time.
Helene WMay 9, 2016
My problem with voting for Trump is simple. He has no core values. He is the poster child of narcissistic personality disorder. I was married to someone with a personality disorder. If you believe nothing else about this election, believe this: If you vote for someone with a personality disorder, we will lose our democracy. It will not survive. Go to bpdfamily.com and get on their message board. Read what is really happening in these familes. Pick up a good biography of Chairman Mao and see how this plays out in the real world. Stop believing in illusions. Trump is exactly who he says he is.
Mike in Escondido CaliforniaMay 4, 2016
Mike in Escondido Calif. 1 I have a hard time understanding the idyllic world view of some people. Yes we should select good righteous leaders...now deal with the reality of what we face in these elections! Barring some ‘back-door deal’ by the Republican Insiders, we have only two choices, HIllary, who should be in jail, or the self serving, narcissist Donald Trump. Please, get beyond your myopic prejudiced opinions. Who of these two will hurt the country more? It’s as simple as that. If you don’t like Donald, should you vote for Hillary in protest ??? That’s about as stupid a position as I have ever heard, second only to this one, “I can’t vote for Hillary and I won’t vote for Trump so I won’t vote at all”. What is the matter with this kind of thinking? People, please open your eyes, WE HAVE TWO CHOICES and one of them is going to be in the presidency!!! Yes, you may have to chose the “lesser” of two evils, but you had better exercise that choice because you definitely won’t like the “worser” of the two evils.
GoingTo100May 2, 2016
I, like the author, have not committed my support to any one candidate although my support will not go to the democratic choices. Interesting how all the Trump naysayers in these comments and everywhere else cannot give specifics to why Trump is so evil. They only get caught up in the emotional hype the media is portraying about him. The fact that the media hates him so much is enough reason to atleast consider him as a potential candidate. I very much appreciated this article and had come up with some similar conclusions on my own. Thanks Mark for the additional insight.
LindaMay 1, 2016
Yes, these are the last days, and unfortunately American will get the President that we deserve, just as we did in the last 2 elections. It just comes down to the fact, that we, as Americans, need to vote. I will vote for the lesser of the evils, because if I don't vote, then I don't have the right to complain. And complain, I will! So, if Trump becomes the Republican nominee, I will vote for him. Anyone but that Hilary woman!
Oliver MMay 1, 2016
The options available to vote for this year are deplorable. I have tried to see the pluses of voting for Trump as the author is suggesting. The problem with this is that a similar list of pluses could be posted for Adolf Hitler or Benito Mussolini. Yes, each had some strengths. And some of the arguments advanced in this article to consider Trump echo what was said of these fascist dictators. Sure, Trump (like all the candidates) wants to do some good. The problem that is overlooked in this article is that you must also consider the fatal flaws of the person. Regardless of what they want to accomplish a narcissist bully like Trump and these others are derailed from significant good by their own destructive mannerisms. Let's not forget that the end does NOT justify the means. And the likelihood that Trump will be truly "presidential" as he promises is pure nonsense. He is not a saint; and likely never will never be one. He has and will continue to bully and demean anyone or group that gets in his way. I have seen this before in the infamous characters of WWII. In fact his mannerisms mirror those of Benito. If you want to get a laugh just look at some old posturing footage of Benito and see who it reminds you of.
DERWINApril 29, 2016
This is how I see it in all simplicity...We have two highly polarizing choices: Clinton or Trump? If anyone can make change in the Washington maching...who of the two can/will do it? We know from 20+ years of history that we will get the Washington politics as usual with Clinton...anyone who dares argue that is delusional. I am not even convinced that Trump can make change, but if we HAVE to roll the dice in favor of positive change...then the only one of the two CAN BE Trump. As LDS, we are taught to value humility and even submissiveness. So we tend to see his "megalomaniacal" arrogance as a prideful abhorrence. But IF change is to be made in Washington, it will have to come from someone as flagrant and aggressive as Trump! Most successful business CEO's fit this category (Walsh, Jobs, Gates, Bezos, Zuckerburg, etc.) It will take this sort of character if there is any real shake up to occur in Washington. I would wager Trump's corporate America efficiency over Clinton's politics as usual history for real change...if any.
LauraApril 29, 2016
I'm perturbed that LDS people such as Brother Stoddard and several of the commentators here are justifying Trump because they think he's not that bad--or at least not as bad as Hillary. That's not the way God has asked us to analyze our potential leaders' qualities. D&C 98:9-10 says: "Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn. Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil." That's a pretty clear statement. Do you really want to mourn because of the wickedness of our leaders? I think the fact that we're likely to have two immoral people to choose from for president is another sign of the last days. We don't have to assume that one is better than the other. They are both rotten. Which one you choose is your personal decision, but for people who are LDS to say that Trump has great qualities and is going to be a great leader for us is disingenuous at best and dangerous at worst. The Book of Mormon has many examples of when the leaders were wicked and the people suffered. We are not always going to be blessed with righteous leaders in this country. We simply can't afford to be deceived in these latter days.
Joey RussellApril 29, 2016
Donald Trump has narcissistic personality disorder. He is mentally ill. Just look up the symptoms. As someone who was married to a man suffering from a closely related personality disorder, you should be warned. The symptoms listed are nothing compared to the chaos these people cause when they enter your life. Giving someone like this the most important job in the country would destroy everything we value. We the people can solve our country's problems. We do not need Saviour Donald. Indeed, our looking to him is a sign we are abdicating our own responsibilities as citizens.
CameronApril 28, 2016
If Trump is elected then the US deserves everything that they get
SDApril 28, 2016
Like "GoTrump" said, GO TO HIS WEBSITE AND STOP SAYING HE DOESN'T HAVE DETAILS. I have heard people criticize his speech because of lack of details. How many details can you get into an hour speech covering all the issues the country faces. I have heard members say Romney spoke for the church. No, he would be the first person to tell you he spoke as an individual. He can not and would not speak on behalf of the church. His rant was his own sincere belief...right or wrong. People did not expect Reagan to show strong leadership. He was an actor, nothing more. Kennedy was too young to be a strong leader, the Catholic church would tell him what to do. You ask, who does the Lord want us to vote for? He wants America to be safe and lead the world toward peace. Trump is the only candidate who can slap D.C. to their senses and clean out the muck. Yes, he has been on both sides of the isle, that is why he knows how to clean it up. He is a mega business man. I think he has the potential of being a mega president. You will hear D.C. scream and shout and pitch a fit because Trump will tear up their game.
Tim WelchApril 28, 2016
Trump is the embodiment of a narcissistic personality disorder. Look it up on Mayo Clinic's website. And, if you think the diagnosis is bad, the prognosis is much worse.
Jean HolyoakApril 28, 2016
Who ever the Republican nominee is, we have to vote for him. We need to look at the bigger picture. We need to get conservative Supreme Court Justices in place or there will be liberals for the next several years. They will construe the Constitution. Religion will be taken out and taxed and all sorts of injustices will be placed upon people of Faith. I feel this is the most serious problem looking at us today.
Gary SevilleApril 28, 2016
"He was like one of those characters in an 18th-century comedy meant to embody a particular flavor of human folly. Trump struck me as adolescent, hilariously ostentatious, arbitrary, unkind, profane, dishonest, amoral, cruel, loudly opinionated, and consistently wrong. He remains the most vain man I have ever met. And he was trying to make a good impression. Who could have predicted that those very traits, now on prominent daily display, would turn him into the leading G.O.P. candidate for president of the United States?" Money and power are drugs that he cannot get enough of.
Pattie SkousenApril 28, 2016
Well written article and well thought out. My question is, who does the Lord want us to vote for? We need His help in making this important decision that had BIG consequences. I have read the previous comments and feel that you all make valid points; but who is the one the Lord wants.
Jim KinseyApril 28, 2016
One of the main reasons I support Trump is that he is not beholden to anyone. No special interests control him. Perhaps that is why so many of the mainstream politicians want to get rid of him. Like Howard Cosell, he says it like it is. No political correctness. We finally got a majority of Republicans in the Senate and the house and they have done nothing to rectify the problems our country has. That includes the LDS legislators. I have no confidence in the current administration nor do I have much confidence in established career politicians. I know of no group or individual who is, at this time, trying to change the status quo. Obama's main desire, it seems, is to destroy America. Hillary is so entangled in corruption and outright illegal acts that to elect her would be a disaster. Talk about Gadianton Robbers. Perhaps it is time for another revolution. A clean sweep to get rid of the scoundrels. The only trouble with that is that it really only lasts for a generation or less. Read the Book of Mormon if you don't believe me. The only real solution to all our problems is the Second Coming of the Savior. Pray for it. I do, daily.
JaneApril 27, 2016
I think a lot of people are whistling past the graveyard with Trump. We know who he is, and he's plainly unworthy of support. (For all the reasons you already know, but are choosing to ignore.) Beyond that, he inconsistent and incoherent on the issues, and well, on everything. He represents a grave threat, particularly in foreign policy matters. Im a conservative and have always voted republican, but I will never vote for Donald Trump.
Kevin PriceApril 27, 2016
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this article. There are also many more admirable traits in Trump that too many choose to overlook. Yes, he is no saint, but neither are any of the others. I am afraid we will have to wait until after the Second Coming before such a candidate will be accepted on the ballot. We need someone who loves and will fight for America.
Rondi PetersenApril 27, 2016
This election year we are definitely very limited on who to vote for. There is no great leader. However, we have to look at what is out there and then make our decision as to whom we feel will take care of us the best. Our country will be in big, big trouble if Hillary is elected and continues the 8 years of Obama which we have had. Bernie Sanders--are you ready for socialism? Ted Cruz is a great choice, but if he isn't the Republican runner for President Donald Trump will get our vote. We don't know yet who he would have for Vice President which will help in our decision making. However, Hillary and Bernie are out of the question. Maybe we should all just move.
GoTrumpApril 27, 2016
For those questioning Trump's ability to articulate his plan properly, why don't you just go to his website? It's DonaldTrump.com Good grief this infuriates me when anyone states he doesn't have a plan when all they have to do is simply look it up. His plan and stances are outlined well I think. No one has an exact answer to every dilemma facing our nation. By the way, the article missed one of the main reasons to support Trump: he won't be bought at any price. He's got my vote.
MoracleApril 27, 2016
Many LDS may have been turned against Trump when their Church issued a comment about Trump's desire to stop bringing in un-vetted Muslims until they could be checked -- in defense of the 1st amendment. Thinking the statement delivered was against Trump, instead of defense of the 1st. If so,they were mistaken, because the Church does not take sides in political campaigns and was surely only speaking to prevent discrimination by government against religious organizations. If Trump had said "Stop Syrians and other terrorist-spawning nations...", the Church would most likely have remained silent, and might even be in silent agreement.
Gary DennisApril 27, 2016
Some thoughts: - There is a higher purpose in this political arena, and the players - whether they win or lose - they are fulfilling their purpose - possibly partly to wake us up to the many problems in our country and throughout the world - possibly to motivate us to do something about these problems rather than continue in our seeming confusion and complacency. Consider: "One basic principle has the power to resolve the problems of the social marketplace - SUPPORT THE SOLUTION INSTEAD OF ATTACKING THE SUPPOSED CAUSES. Attack is in itself. .leading through fear to intimidation, coercion and, eventually, moral corruption. The solutions that have power are the ones based at the level of acceptance rather than condemnation.Successful solutions are based on the powerful principle that resolution occurs by fostering the positive, not by attacking the negative." Dr. David R. Hawkins, M.D., PhD - "Power vs Force" "Merely to resist evil with evil by hating those who hate us, and seeking to destroy them, is actually no resistance at all. It is active and purposeful collaboration in evil that brings the Christian into direct and intimate contact with the same source of evil and hatred which inspires the acts of his enemy. It leads in practice.to a denial of Christ and to the service of hatred rather than love." Thomas Merton "Passion for Peace; Reflections on War and Nonviolence. "You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete." Buckminster Fuller Finally - The world is the way IT IS, and the reasons are to be found in the consequences of all our past choices and actions - individually and collectively. All things in this world are constantly changing, evolving and unfolding according to a grand Divine and Eternal plan for the good of ALL mankind. We cannot change WHAT WAS - WHAT IS - WHAT IS MEANT TO BE in consequence of our present and future beliefs and actions as part of this grand Eternal plan. We can only help make the world a better place by seeking a better way - by seeking causes that have the future effects that we desire - not just achieved solely but collectively among all mankind. We must come together in like mind and inspiration to establish causes that improve the conditions of all mankind with a new and positive paradigm - and one that is designed to heal the adverse effects of our past choices and actions. Seek the promptings of the Holy Spirit - you will be guided into all truth - even truth found in the current political arena. Love -
Lynette MillsApril 27, 2016
"If, to please the people, we offer what we ourselves disapprove, how can we afterwards defend our work? Let us raise a standard to which the wise and honest can repair. The event is in the hand of God." George Washinton Somehow, Donald Trumps name does not fit in here anywhere.
Tom JohnsonApril 27, 2016
I think the reason that Trump is being so successful is that he is not a career politician; as a businessman he calls things as he sees them without all the concern for political correctness.
Marti SApril 27, 2016
I have problems with Trump. He hasn't yet released his income tax return. The IRS says he can. His Clothing line is manufactured in China. He says Americans make too much money. He hasn't disavowed those who have made death threats. He imports foreign workers for his resorts because he doesn't have to pay them as much. Trump University was clearly a fraud and there are 3 lawsuits against Trump for that. He is very vengeful. His actions toward Megyn Kelly is an example of this. He makes large contributions to politicians and then calls them when he "needs a favor." He's bragged about this. Making fun of someone's disability is clearly immature. The veteran organizations still haven't received most of the money he raised. I;m sure there's more, but I can't think of them right now.
K HendersonApril 27, 2016
Not all Mormons dislike Trump. In fact Trump will receive votes from many Mormons in the US if he becomes the republican nominee. I agree with the comment, "Trump is our last hope." Mitt Romney has his own problems. He has been very unfair to Donald Trump.
Red StateApril 27, 2016
What people don't understand is that its not about Trump. It is about the anger and resentment many many people have toward the corrupt system we have. The Republican party is not conservative these days and they absolutely refuse to respond to those who are. If it wasn't Trump it would be someone else. Lots of Utah Mormons need to wake up.
herm olsenApril 27, 2016
"True" Republicans will do anything, say anything to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Romney was exactly right in his scathing criticism of Trump, and now the Right-Wingers must repudiate the previous nominee in order to support this current disaster - The Donald. He violates every Gospel principle of decency, courtesy and humility. Stings a little, doesn't it?
Tad M BeroApril 27, 2016
Wonderful article. Mitt Romney should've said the same thing but he decided to join the people that threw him under the bus 4 years ago on top of disappearing after the first debate that he won by a landslide. To me Mitt was the most overrated. Trump is our last hope.
Jim B.April 27, 2016
AMEN.......Who has destroyed this country for the last twenty six years??? The establishment politicians are the ones who has ruined our country not an outsider.......Mister Trump will be great for our country....He is a business man and knows how to lead .......... Does not need any money or contributors to corrupt his decisions...
Debbie BakeApril 27, 2016
Thank you for your article; I needed a good laugh this morning. I feel refreshed, more educated about someone I have never found "charming." If we stop demonizing people, perhaps we could see through all the hype.
KOApril 27, 2016
Mr Trump has evolved out of the jungle of NYC to be protective of his family and holdings, is a great father so report his children and ex-wife, works tirelessly (a work ethic he learned from his father), is a workaholic as reported by his children, actually graduated well from Wharton (not an easy task), has built an empire, is well liked by those who know him, hates lying and liars....he doesn't lie, will punch back anyone who hits him, has a huge heart for those who suffer (I've seen this personally) and try their best and fail, and a global view of world economy that is realistic and knows the players and what is fair, still believes creating jobs and markets are the best plan, given our monetary system, He will do what it takes to bring America into the safety zone without extravagant vacations every couple of months. A vote for him is a vote for a Father to our Country....because all of America will become his family and we all know he takes care of his family.
Harold RustApril 27, 2016
I really like how Mark addresses issues in a toned-down and relatively non-emotional approach. I tend to agree with him in general, but still find it upsetting that our country (at least a sizeable number) are chasing after the ultimate populist--one who promises he can fix everything for everyone and yet doesn't have a single specific outline of what that will mean exactly. It parallels the mania that follows a rock star who can't even sing or an athlete who may be great at one sport but is otherwise a true jerk. It seems to me that Trump has focused almost all media attention on hype and hyperbole with very little layout of comparison of specific plans or public policy. The latter is what needs to be debated nationally so that we the people are giving input regarding one of 3 or 4 specific policies regarding legal and illegal immigration rather than solely whether we like the guy who screams they are all thugs or the gal who says she loves them all, especially if they aren't legal. That is why I don't like Trump and I just wish we had one of the 4 or 5 best presidential candidates out of the 14 who started out to now be in his delegate position rather than have it be Trump. The election process would be so much more aligned with what this country needs.
CharlieBrown2292April 27, 2016
Very fair approach to the issues at stake. If a "B-movie" Star could win the nomination and make a great President a few decades ago, Trump's election may indeed not turn out to be as bad for America and the rest of the world as so many fear. At least, his business experience and deal-making skills could prove helpful in turning the U.S. Economy around and making America more influential in international matters...maybe a risk worth taking with Hillary being the only alternative!
ADD A COMMENT