There are 2 big issues with Republicans right now. These issues have led me, otherwise a centrist, to vow to vote straight Democratic ticket (with exception of any Democrat who is wildly unqualified) from here forward until these issues are corrected.
1) Disrespectful behavior from your chosen leader. King Cheeto in this case. He has been disrespectful to the handicapped, to women, to POWs, to the press, and many others. This is absolutely unacceptable from a President. To support a candidate who behaves like this is treason against humanity.
2) Disrespecting science (not an issue with all Republicans, but big enough to be dominant). Science is the beacon of human intelligence. To defy it is to embrace ignorance, and it could lead to the downfall of our civilization. Climate change is inconvenient. But it's well supported science. You can't ignore it without being irresponsible. If you are a conservative, come up with ways to address it that are compatible with conservative ideology. Like a revenue neutral carbon tax. Anything less is willful ignorance that endangers not just our country but our entire species and planet.
That said, I strongly believe in the need to find common ground between parties. I've stated what the 2 big issues are, and everything else is negotiable. I think Republicans can be brought around on both issues, but we aren't going to get there by berating them. We need to coax them back into the light. BTW, check out March For Science for item 2; it's a budding nonpartisan effort to show Republicans and everyone else that science is a friend, not an enemy. It needs the support of as many Republican science advocates as possible, and non-Republicans need to remain as respectful as possible (don't forget the importance of item 1!). Science advocacy, no partisan stuff. I hope it is successful.
Where does Elon stand? I think we can safely say he is a big supporter of science, and wants to help address climate change and other environmental issues. But he is trying to do it in a cooperative way that seeks collaboration and common ground. I think that is a respectable stance, and also for the best with respect to his companies.
Best of luck to us all.
