Saturday night the Democratic candidates gave a lesson to Republicans defining what must be contained in a debate. All issues were discussed by the three candidates, and they often disagreed with how they might be accomplished, but they were solid on what must be done to make our country great again.

They did not interject fear, and offered sensible ideas about how to defeat ISIS and protect our people from terrorism. They had plans, and did not solely use rhetoric such as “we will defeat ISIS” without offering a strategy.

Hillary Clinton was 100 percent correct when she said that the disappearance of the middle class must not happen, and that the wealthiest of Americans must contribute to our nation’s future. She was also correct that you will never hear a discussion by Republicans about income inequality.

All three agreed that the Syrian refugee situation must be addressed in a humane and sensible manner, and that America must do its part to address the issue. They also pointed to facts denied by Republicans that vetting these refugees will take from 18 to 24 months.

All supported a path to citizenship for nearly 12 million undocumented residents; it’s good for the nation, and simply the right thing to do.

Education was a priority for all three, although how to make it affordable was debated. But each had a definite plan, not simply a blank statement.

Also discussed were the serious matters of regime change in the Middle east and its repercussions. Also at the center of international relations was the need for more Muslim involvement in the war against ISIS, and that Russia must focus more on the destruction of terrorists and less on the opposition to Assad.

The evening was filled with intelligent discussion and void of fear tactics and personal attacks.

I doubt that the Republican Party will have a true debate before the election. Those who partake in the events have proven themselves inadequate when intelligent discussion is called for. All thirteen are unarmed and not ready to do battle.

Op-Ed

By James Turnage

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