The second impeachment trial of the former president is not a futile exercise as some Republicans would like you to believe. It is an opportunity for the party of Lincoln to decide whether it stands for principles or is only about retaining power at all costs.
Accountability is necessary before unity is possible.
By adhering to principles, the Grand Old Party could broaden its appeal to prospective voters. They could nominate courageous candidates who would resist the influence of white supremacists, QAnon members, and insurrectionists on their extreme right. They could become known as the Party of Yes and not pride themselves on being “grim reapers” of ideas different from their own. This applies equally to Democrats and independents as well. We need each other.
Lincoln opposed slavery and proclaimed emancipation. He envisioned a United States of America, not the polarization of red vs. blue. He would not support the disenfranchisement of millions of voters to overturn a free and fair election. Liberals, moderates, and conservatives are not mortal enemies. Most sincerely love their country and only want the best for its citizens. That is especially true at this time of pandemic and death.
Right now, our common enemy is the virus, not each other. I support the call for a bipartisan approach to resolve the existential crises we all face together.
FRANK WARMAN
Hopkinton