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Dear Editor,

Americans have witnessed what harsh rhetoric and calls for violence can bring to our beloved USA. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have time and again led us through difficult moments like these and have been the voice of reason, calm, and clarity when we have needed it.

In his inaugural address, and again on Saturday July 13, Biden spoke directly to the American people with a clear message of unity. In summary, he said, “It’s time to lower the temperature in our politics and remember that while we may disagree, we are not enemies — we are fellow Americans”. In fact, his message has been a core motivation of this administration: ending political violence, uniting this country, and restoring the soul of this nation. Harris stated that “Bottom line, no one should have to fear for the safety of their loved one because they run for public office.” It should be noted that applies to every party candidate. I am sure Vice President Pence would agree as he faced a possible death by hanging from the insurrectionists who had gallows outside of the US Capitol building and chanted “Hang Mike Pence.”

Biden was correct when he said, “The choice we make in this election will shape the future of America for decades to come.” Harris was more succinct when she said, “The Future is Now.” This election is about our future. Disagreement is inevitable-healthy when respect is shown and everyone is allowed to express an opinion-unhealthy when loud, angry, and hyper-emotional outbursts are used to bully and intimidate. However, we all need to agree that politics must never be a literal battlefield. In our modern and civilized time, Americans should not solve their differences through violence like the autocratic countries of Hungary, Russia, North Korea and Nicaragua. We must solve them at the ballot box.

I encourage everyone to find and read information on Project 2025 and Agenda 47. The groups and individuals who authored these policy proposals are attempting to carry us backwards to before the 1960s (even to the 1800s with Byzantine laws impacting the rights of women, veterans/disabled veterans, senior citizens, children and their education, and people of color). Biden and Harris’ policies have always looked to the future — my future; your future; your children’s and your grandchildren’s future. The vision and character of our overlapping futures lie in the hands of the voters if we resolve to stand firm and strong for all Americans — women, men, children, the elderly, the disabled, POC, LGBTQ+.

Humanity is meant to progress as our many different prophets and faith creeds all teach us to love our neighbors. A corrupted and unloving interpretation of religious scriptures used to trample upon the rights of others will not move us forward. Love is what will move us forward together. I encourage every eligible voter to read as much as they can, do research and not just listen to the talking heads on TV/social media, and to vote in the upcoming election. If you are inclined, encourage others to vote. The Future is Now.

Patsy Watson, Chair,

Prince Edward Democratic Committee