Instead of watching the Republican debate last night, I should have watched people who were watching the debate. I likely would have seen shock and awe of the really bad kind, boredom and disgust – a range of interesting emotions to be sure.

Words cannot describe the incredible spectacle that was the debate. This is Lincoln’s party? Lincoln must be turning in his grave.

Sixteen candidates, or is that fifteen after Rick Perry’s departure – whatever, all of them sounding clownish, most of them attacking the biggest and baddest clown of them all!  

There was not a Presidential man in sight among them. The only one who came across as remotely Presidential was also the only woman on stage, Ms. Fiorina. Of course, she has her own HP demons to conquer.

The line-up was composed of former and current senators, governors, congressmen, CEOs and even medical doctors – so you know that these are accomplished, intelligent people. But, it’s like something has happened to them by being in this Presidential race. They have morphed into strange people who have left their intellect, pride and principles at home. All except Trump. With him, I believe what you see is what you get, intellect notwithstanding.

I am about as far from the GOP ideology as you can imagine. I guess I should be happy with this clownish theater being showcased by the opposing party. It’s one that is more suitable to a reality show than to American politics. But, enough already!

As I write this, I am watching Wolf Blitzer interviewing Hillary Clinton, and like her or not, the depth and intelligence of her responses are in such stark contrast to the Republican sideshow I watched yesterday.

So, for me, that’s a darn good thing.  But.

Something about the low standards of American politics that we are all witnessing this year makes me sad and slightly sick to the stomach. It doesn’t matter which party it is.

Can we possibly hope that instead of being a sign of things to come, this atrocious lowering of standards ends up causing a major correction in politics and leadership?

You think?  

Nah. 😦

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In case you don’t buy what I’m saying, check out the cover from NY Daily News today: