Blowing last chance for statesmanship

During the past four years, how often have Trump supporters been overheard reminding anyone within earshot that the president speaks his mind. Given my upbringing, that was one of several typical pro-Trump characteristics which elicited an eye roll.

But, of course, for the past year, he boldly exclaimed he'd make a mess of a transition should he lose. He kept his word and, incredibly, told the truth.

The problem is, our president's occasional verbal and regularly written bluster has 320 million Americans focused on the past - not the goodness and blessings of a new day. Our president has demonstrated how an actual apprentice performs. This version of his show, sadly, has been filmed at the White House.

FDR passed over several more senior generals when he selected Ike. For America to enter the European war, though, Roosevelt demanded that Eisenhower would have total control, The Supreme Commander. Churchill wisely acquiesced, knowing Britain may be doomed without our involvement. Ike was Roosevelt's choice because, in his wisdom, he was the most able to coalesce divergent sides and headstrong commanders. Sound familiar?

Ike hadn't ever led troops in combat nor personally faced enemy fire. Yet he was a brilliant organizer, strategist and decision-maker. Should the D-Day invasion have failed, he composed a letter the night before, personally accepting the responsibility.

Our president has one remaining chance to demonstrate an element of statesmanship, some recognition of reality and a bit of presidential mettle. America hopes and prays he takes advantage of this opportunity. Allow President-elect Biden, the man overlooked in Iowa and New Hampshire, to begin the historically accepted elements of his new job.

And, if you think President Trump might write that letter if the Warp-Speed vaccines don't work, he won't. However, he'll have Joe Biden to blame.

David Moore

Winfield