My Closing Argument

 

The End Is Coming!

As we approach the final days of the election, I'd like to share some reflections on my campaign and recent experiences that have deeply impacted my perspective on the issues facing our nation.

An Unexpected Hospital Stay

While the major party candidates held their grand rallies, I found myself in a more sobering setting - accompanying my mother-in-law Alice for an extended stay at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, VA. Over two weeks in October, I witnessed firsthand many of the real-life challenges that often get ignored or reduced to distorted and half-true memes or talking points by politicians.

Charlottesville: A City of Contrasts

Charlottesville itself is a place of great historical significance and modern complexities:

• Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia stands as a testament to our nation's intellectual foundations and democracy itself.

• Yet in 2017, the city became synonymous with the disturbing "Unite the Right" rally, where neo-Nazis marched openly. As someone whose father and uncle’s fought against Hitler and the horrors of Nazism in WWII, I find any resurgence of such ideology deeply troubling.

Healthcare Realities

UVA Hospital provided excellent care, thanks to a diverse and dedicated staff. Many were immigrants, proudly sharing stories of their home countries. Their compassion and skill stood in stark contrast to the anti-immigrant rhetoric so prevalent in today's political discourse. I completely reject any political ideology that demonizes immigrants with lies and false narratives.

The cost of healthcare remains a critical issue. While Alice was fortunate to have insurance coverage, I couldn't help but think of her roommate - a homeless woman in her 70s, struggling without resources. How does our society allow our elderly to become so vulnerable?  How does the wealthiest country on earth allow such a gap between the top 1% of earners and the rest of us?  Will cuts be proposed to Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and Social Security by the next congress?

A Call for Collaborative Solutions

Neither major party can claim innocence in the face of these challenges. It's easy to point fingers and cast blame, but real solutions are far more complex than political talking points. Our leaders must move beyond partisan arguments and work together to find real solutions.

Your Vote Matters

As we approach Election Day, I urge you to take your civic duty seriously. Research candidates at all levels who demonstrate a commitment to addressing these issues through collaboration and practical solutions.

While I've enjoyed being a fictional candidate for President and poking a little fun at our political processes this past 10 months, the act of voting is no joke - it's about shaping our collective future.

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