Chronicle poll results: Toning down political rhetoric
We asked our readers if they think politicians will tone down their rhetoric as a result of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Here's what they said.
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an electronic poll the following question: “Do you think that politicians will tone down their rhetoric as a result of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump?” Of the 286 people who responded, 83% said no; 11% said yes; and 6% said they didn’t know. Comments were submitted by 86 people. A few follow.
We have long since gone beyond the scope and realm of basic human decency in politics. I fear, and predict, the current political climate is going to further escalate.
Rhetoric will continue because it appeals to the Trump supporters. They have supported him throughout his vitriolic speech about Jan. 6, Hillary Clinton and threats about violence if he loses the election.
The offenders are on the left. They are incorrigible.
I believe that too many politicians are prone to harsh rhetoric to make their points. I also firmly believe that Donald Trump has established a toxic environment that allows such hatred to thrive.
As long as we keep on thinking of everything as a “fight,” no one will be toning down anything. The Republican convention was not toned down…. each speaker seemed to be shouting about what is bad now, rather than waxing poetic about what could be good. Every time a politician says, “I will fight for you,” they are feeding this mania. Executives need to run a vast machine (not control a monarchy), legislators need to find consensus toward the common good, and judges need to serve justice with impartiality.
Does a tiger ever lose its stripes? Can a leopard ever get rid of its spots? Politicians (at least the current generation) thrive on controversy and have sadly proven to be incapable of subtlety, compromise or moderation. I will not be holding my breath expecting any “toning down of rhetoric.”
Those on the left fail to recognize that their rhetoric is just as inflammatory as those on the right.
Very few politicians of either party care to support the interests of those who voted them in office. All they care about is staying in office, protecting their position, and getting as much money and as many perks as they possibly can. I’ve voted in every election since becoming eligible to vote. I am 81. I’ve seen how it can and should be, and I’ve seen what it’s become. Most of these politicians are self-serving and have little concern for our country or its citizens.
Much of the American public is angry at the distinction which has been brought about by the extreme rhetoric and vilifying the other. It will take a hugely bright statesman to turn that ship
around.
It will get worse. PJC
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