Dear editor,
In early September, I stopped by the Washington County Republican office in Farmington, and said that, although I do not intend to vote for Trump, I was interested to learn why they think he is the better candidate. My purpose, which I stated on arrival, was to understand, not to debate. The young employee stated they are not allowed to discuss Trump with Democrats. Despite my great surprise, this was confirmed by a volunteer and a local candidate, who agreed this ban on communication is the Republican party policy.
Last week. I visited the Washington County Democratic Headquarters in Springdale, and asked the volunteer there why she thinks Clinton is the better candidate. "Where do I start?" she said, and listed Clinton's experience with education and children's health, her work history, and her international experience.
I find the Republicans' ban on conversation very disturbing. What does this say about the chance of forward progress in our bipartisan system? How can we understand if we can't even talk with each other?
Sincerely,
LaDeana Mullinix
Farmington
Editorial on 10/12/2016