To The Readers’ Forum:

The problems in the Republican Party have been building for many years. Look at the tactics of Newt Gingrich in the 1990s and the rhetoric of Sarah Palin, her cohorts and the Tea Party in the 2000s. Their unending obstructionism in Congress has created an unwillingness or an inability to work successfully together with both Republicans and Democrats to attempt to solve some of the more serious and complex problems facing all of us. Instead they referred those problems to the future; which only makes the problems more difficult to solve.

The Republicans are reaping what they have sown. The chickens have come home to roost. The behind the scenes establishment of Republicans who have controlled the party are now frantic and don’t know what to do. No doubt, some of the previous mega-donors are unlikely to fund Donald Trump. Or will that not make a difference as he is largely self-funded at this time? The party has some very serious decisions to make, as quickly as possible, over the future of “The Grand Old Party!”

Will the Republican Party get behind Donald Trump? Will they see Donald Trump with all his crudity, bluster and one line solutions to solve major and complex problems? Or will Republicans see strength in all his chatter? Will some Republicans hold their noses and eventually vote for Hillary Clinton?

Donald Trump is just the opposite of what Ronald Reagan stood for; politician consistency, respect for ideals, respect for others, civility and personal grace. Or will Republicans see his actions as one of strength and pleasure that he is confronting those already in control?

Donald’s statements on immigration would lose a large part of the Hispanic population. His comments on women have caused many women to be alienated. The fear over his foreign policy will alienate some people. His one stance on all Muslims will cause the loss of good, decent and patriotic Muslims. His forceful stance on immigration will cause some to leave the party. Some consider him a loose cannon. The anti-Trump movement is growing. Will many in the party do everything in their power to reclaim the Republican Party from his demagogic and authoritarian rule? On the other hand, Donald Trump has played to the fears of many people finding simple solutions to complex and difficult problems and has great popularity and support from a lot of people. It’s hard to imagine Trump winning the presidency, but one never knows. Or will the Republican Party get behind Ted Cruz, which most Republican members of Congress dislike intently?

The Republican Party is being torn apart. Is this the end of a viable Republican party? How will it all work out? Even the experts are unwilling to make a prediction.

Roger Gilbert

Lakewood