Dear Editor:

I suppose it was inevitable, all things considered — general dissatisfaction with government, social and financial challenges of the middle class, concentration of wealth in the hands of the 1 percent, with reality television shows and the adoration of celebrities — that one of these, the last one named, would try to buy the presidency.

You know whom I'm talking about. Years ago, Donald Trump, who at the time called himself a Democrat, made the statement that if he ever decided to run for president, he would run as a Republican because "Republicans will believe anything." That seems to be true.

Come on people. Do we need a president who believes as Trump does that American workers are overpaid? Do you feel overpaid? Trump is a charter member of the 1 percent. Do you think he's going to change the economic balance of this country? I doubt it. We might as well say, "OK wealthy folks, you've got 99 percent of the wealth. Here, take the rest of it."

Perhaps your support of Trump and the GOP is a matter of conscience. You would make any sacrifice to outlaw abortion and roll back gay rights. Perhaps your pastor has hinted as much from the pulpit. I've not yet heard Trump address either of these matters. I doubt any of the Republican candidates could accomplish these even though they want to. Don't you see this is only a ploy to get votes?

Have you read the New Testament and noticed how Jesus railed against the religious authorities of his time, who mixed religion and politics for their own selfish gains? He never spoke that harshly against the Romans or the sinners (prostitutes and tax collectors) of his time.

Our greatest challenge, even more than the threat of terrorism, is the disintegration of our middle class. This is the backbone, the foundation of our economy and way of life. If it is abandoned, or its plight is made worse, it will be difficult for us to survive as a nation.

The Democratic party has been blessed with two great candidates. It is difficult to choose between them. Hopefully someone will arise — Republican or Independent — with the courage and vision to give everyone more choices.

Frances Bredeau

Boothbay Harbor