ELECTION: Silent no longer

Was I a part of the “silent vote” that pushed Donald Trump to victory?

I didn’t think I had been silent, but maybe I have.

I am hopeful of having a government that is not defined by the money of special interest groups.

I want U.S. businesses to be given priority over global markets.

I would prefer a hardworking business man leading my country right now, rather than a lawyer and politician.

But why would I not vote for a woman president? I would! But I am first and foremost voting for a leader who represents my interests over the sexist desire to prefer to have a woman or a man for president.

I want good relations with our global neighbors, but I do not want them to control the laws of my country.

I want to know that the flow of illegal immigrants has been curtailed at our boarders, even though I am NOT ready to deport my neighbor, who may not be a legal citizen, but who has been working and complying with the laws of this great land. There needs to be a path to citizenship.

I believe all lives matter… red, black, yellow, pink, blue, Hispanic, Caucasian, Asian, African American, Polynesian and Unborn.

All human life is precious. I believe we need to relate to one another respectfully and courteously.

I believe that the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was not written just to be able to go hunting. I believe it was meant to keep our families safe. I have been deeply impacted by gun violence, but I still believe guns do not kill people. People kill people.

As I expect to respect others’ beliefs, I want my Christian beliefs to be respected.

I want a president that does not denigrate my Christian beliefs and values.

I would hope that my grandchildren will be allowed to quote from the Bible in school if they wish.

I want to celebrate Christmas, and I am not alone.

And as for the progress of the last eight years… I do not think Obamacare has been a benefit, and I believe we need to try again. New plan, please.

So ultimately I believe I have made the right choice for me when I voted. We do not all think the same, and I respect that. We will continue to have a country of many voices. I have not been heard for the last eight years, and many thanks to the political system my voice is closer to being heard today. I do not put my hope in one person or leader. My hope is in God, and giving Him a chance.

To those that are feeling wounded by this election, eight years ago and four years ago it was the other way round and I was the one who was angry and hurt. But this country survived. I love America. Let’s love the United States of America together!

PAMELA MARTIN

Post Falls