Dear Mitt

Dear Mr. Romney,

We've never met, and we would disagree about nearly everything. But I trust you, and I'm asking for your help.

Let me explain. I'm a liberal Democrat. I'm an atheist. I have a PhD in the humanities. I'm pro-choice. I'm an environmentalist. I support gay marriage. To sum it all up, you and I have extremely different world views.

But here's the thing: our similarities outweigh our differences, because you and I are both Americans, and we both believe in American values: free speech, freedom of religion, security and safety for everyone, and a solid future for our children. And you and I both believe in the idea and ideal of public service, of devoting ourselves to the well-being of others. We disagree about what exactly that might look like, but we agree in coming to the table, in showing respect for each other, and in working toward a compromise that benefits as many people as possible and protects those who are vulnerable. 

I've observed you in politics for many years now, and although we don't hold the same positions on issues, I believe that you are faithful to your word, that you are kind, and that you are ethical.

And that's why I'm asking for your help.

Many of my liberal friends will think I'm naive for trusting you, or even that I am unacceptably compromising my progressive values by appealing to you. But the recent divisive election has shown me that we must bridge the painful divide in American politics and American society. I believe there is a bridge we can build between your ethical conservatism and my ethical liberalism, a bridge of honesty and compassion.

But I don't believe there is a bridge that can be built between my worldview and that of Donald Trump. No bridge can span the distance between science and pseudoscience, between truth and lies, between compassion and cruelty.

So I'm asking you: in your view, as someone who has been in politics for many years, who knows Republicans and conservatives well, where do we go from here?

How can your side sit down with mine, break bread, and create a coalition of the middle?

How can we stop the rise of radical demagogues in the future?

How can we show the disillusioned people of middle America a better way forward?

How can we better understand and respect the grievances of good people who feel so alienated that they voted for a corrupt, morally and sometimes financially bankrupt abuser?

Thank you for speaking out against Donald Trump during the campaign. I'm sure that was politically and personally difficult, and I am deeply grateful that you were a conservative voice of reason in a dark time. I believe history will vindicate you, and that, although you will probably never be president, your words will help us forward. 

I know you're unlikely to read this letter. You're busy, and I'm just one citizen. But nevertheless, I await your reply. 

Sincerely,

Catherine