The last time Utah voted for a Democrat was in 1964; 52 years ago. The candidate was Lyndon Johnson. There is a distinct possibility that the state could turn blue this year. The reason is the Republican candidate, Donald Trump.
Trump’s anti-Muslim position greatly concerns Mormons. Their own persecution by Christians in the not too distant past has them very concerned about Trump’s prejudiced position.
Mormons are also concerned about Trump’s anti-immigration platform. Young Mormon missionaries are working around the world and welcome refugees.
“People who normally vote Republican are in a terrible state of ambivalence right now,” said Tim Chambless, a political scientist at the University of Utah. “They are so undecided. They want to vote, but they aren’t sure how to vote.”
In March Mitt Romney, who is a revered Mormon in Utah, warned the people of Utah that they were being duped by Trump. Ted Cruz won the state’s primary by 14 points.
The question is; can voters who have cast their ballots for Republicans for more than 50 years make the decision to elect a Democrat?
Voters such as Angie Melton, who has never voted for a Democrat, are feeling deeply torn.
“I’m upset by this turn of events,” Ms. Melton, 41, said as she sat in the shade with her family next to the towering Salt Lake Temple, the center of Mormonism. “I’ve always voted Republican, but my thought has been that she would be less damaging in terms of world politics,” she said, referring to Mrs. Clinton.
This is a perfect example of the ‘Trump effect.’ Republicans traditionally vote for anyone with an “R” next to their name. This is more proof that the Republican Party is broken beyond repair. Voters simply don’t trust any member of the GOP to keep their promises and represent them in Washington.
The media has been unfair to Hillary Clinton. It has taken time, but Americans are now becoming aware of her position on the issues; a position which represents all Americans. Lies by Trump have been exposed; the truth always comes; sometimes it takes a while.
Op-Ed
By James Turnage
Photo Courtesy of Bryan Mills
Follow me on twitter: @jamesturnagenov
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