In early 2016 it became obvious to me that former Democratic, Republican and Reform Parties candidate Donald Trump would receive the GOP POTUS nomination. I left the Republican Party after supporting its candidates for most of my 50 voting years. In my opinion Mr. Trump is lacking in principles and knowledge of the Constitution. His single desirable quality is a conscious effort to achieve his campaign promises.

The Republican Platform 2016 states:

Reducing the Federal Debt

Our national debt is a burden on our economy and families. The huge increase in the national debt demanded by and incurred during the current Administration has placed a significant burden on future generations. We must impose firm caps on future debt, accelerate the repayment of the trillions we now owe in order to reaffirm our principles of responsible and limited government, and remove the burdens we are placing on future generations. A strong economy is one key to debt reduction, but spending restraint is a necessary component that must be vigorously pursued.

The Republican Party has ignored the above plank during the Trump administration and has lost credibility. It is no longer deserving of the loyalty of its members. Perhaps if ranked-choice-voting was implemented by the majority of the states, third-parties would grow and the electorate would not have to choose between the lesser of two evils.

As governor of South Carolina Mark Sanford demonstrated knowledge of the state constitution and fiscal responsibility. He was respected by the electorate until he encountered his “soul mate” and abandoned his family and office responsibilities. I agree that “character matters” especially when filling the office of POTUS. However, it seems that “public service” has degenerated into an affinity for power and wealth. While Mark Sanford would not be a viable candidate at least he would bring attention to deficit spending.