Opinion: Hey, young people, get over your disillusion and go vote

Young people should not be discouraged by such a divisive presidential campaign. There have been many campaigns during our country’s history that have been short on discussion of issues and long on mudslinging. No matter what happens the republic will go on. (“The country needs a graceful loser in this election. The future of American democracy depends on it,” Opinion, Nov. 7)

This will be my 15th vote for president, having cast my first for John F. Kennedy in 1960. His was not a perfect presidency, and we have no way of knowing what his full legacy would have been, but there is no doubt that he inspired a generation of us to pay attention to politics and to give voice to our better angels.

There is much good here, and it is up to us to try and make sure it is used to benefit all our people. We do this by working for our candidates and causes and by casting a vote. It is a privilege denied to many around the world.

Finally, remember that 100 years ago, women still did not have the right to vote. They are on track to make a big difference today. Our leaders are human, and they represent us and our ideals. Young voters should keep this in mind when they raise their children and cast their votes.

Sharon Rasey, Camarillo

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To the editor: I had never been horrified by any presidential election going back to when I cast my first vote in the 1970s. I have voted mostly for Democrats, but in elections before Bill Clinton I did vote for a Republican or two. After Clinton was elected in 1992, the brain of the Republican party started to go insane.

This election has horrified me. I have never seen such a hateful, un-American campaign. How could close to half of all voters intend to vote for Republican nominee Donald Trump?

I believe the good people who are voting Republican think Trump is merely preaching to “the base” to get elected. They do not realize he is the base, and he will not become someone else if he wins.

Kevin Bohacz, Redondo Beach

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To the editor: Let me get this straight: The Republicans are the ones who are accused of fear mongering, but it is Clinton who warns of the “grim possibilities” and a “dark future” if Trump wins on Tuesday.

Sounds like politics as usual.

Dan Stern, Manhattan Beach

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