Any Democrat is better

“He’s a racist. He’s a con man. He’s a cheat,” said Michael Cohen, referring to President Trump in his testimony before Congress. Of course he is. He’s also a pathological liar, a misogynist of the first order and a malignant narcissist, to boot. It’s not like we didn’t already know.

Thankfully, Trump’s house of cards seems to be teetering, although it’s clear his Republican apologists are going to stick with him until the bitter end, more concerned with a primary challenge from Trump’s base than protecting our democracy. History will judge them harshly.

While the chaos continues in D.C. and the Democratic majority in the House proves daily why elections matter, the rest of us can start focusing on the astounding number of quality candidates lining up to challenge Trump and his blind followers who see no evil, even when it’s right in front of them.

Democrats have many good choices this cycle, a refreshing development for voters who are going to have to do more homework than they’re used to on policy positions, character analysis and relevant experience. The diversity in candidates is exciting and well worth the time.

Nevada chooses its preferred candidate early next year, on Feb. 22. Our deeply flawed caucus process inspires little confidence, but if the early “vote and go” idea is approved, more people will likely participate and make the results more valid. Of course, then it’s not really a caucus is it? But a non-government primary is still vastly preferable to the previous ragtag, crowded and chaotic caucuses that disenfranchised anyone not willing or able to participate.

Nevada may not matter as much anyway, since the California primary has been moved up to March 3. Reno may actually benefit by getting a few more visits as candidates appear in Northern California and stop by Washoe County on the way.

At this point, I’m not committed to a candidate, although I’m warming to Elizabeth Warren’s economic policies, especially the wealth tax and her emphasis on quality, affordable child care. I’m liking what Kamala Harris has to say about repealing corporate tax breaks and giving more to the middle class. And it’s so energizing to hear Jay Inslee say that climate change is his top priority and should be ours as well. I want to hear more from Julian Castro, Pete Buttigieg and Beto O’Rourke before making up my mind. And I’ve not closed the door on Cory Booker, John Hickenlooper or even Joe Biden. Kristen Gillibrand, Amy Klobuchar and Bernie Sanders are not high on my list, but who’s to say that won’t change as the campaign progresses.

There’s plenty of information available on all of these candidates already and much more to come as they are tested by the primary process. Do your own homework, and don’t let endorsements sway you. Figure out what matters most to you and then find the candidate who is going to do something meaningful about it.

My top issues right now are climate change, child care/pre-school education, mental health, gun safety, corporate welfare and income inequality. I also want a candidate with a reputation and history of working well with others to build our nation, not someone who thinks he or she is the only person who can save us. I’m open as to gender and age, but I want to see intelligence, stability and authenticity. An inspiring candidate would also be a welcome antidote to Trump.

There’s one thing I can say for sure, and I think a strong majority of Democrats and non-partisans will agree along with the few rational Republicans who haven’t fallen under Trump’s spell. Whoever emerges as the Democratic nominee will have my vote. Any and all of them are vastly superior to the immoral, xenophobic simpleton who currently resides in the White House.