Michael A. Clarke: ‘True’ conservative values would damage America

Each of the Republican presidential wannabees claims to be the only purveyor of “true conservative values.” These values include taking away health insurance from millions of Americans by repealing Obamacare; preventing immigration of “undesirables” (Mexicans? Muslims?); legalizing discrimination against gay people by denying them the civil rights enjoyed by heterosexual people; making it harder for some citizens to vote; preventing women from making their own healthcare decisions; eliminating government agencies that protect consumers, public lands, the environment and the poor; and ignoring the need for effective gun safety laws.

True conservative values apparently include a religious test for public office: only Christian fundamentalists need apply! One candidate claims “our rights come from God, not the Constitution,” a view that would come as a surprise to the writers of our founding document.

Job creation is also an important part of the conservative value system. Unfortunately, the jobs created would be based on expansion of the coal, gas and oil industries, enriching a few while hampering efforts to reduce global warming. Taxes would be lowered on the rich. It’s sad anyone would support such “values.”

This story was originally published March 3, 2016 at 6:20 PM with the headline "Michael A. Clarke: ‘True’ conservative values would damage America."