Join us: write to 25 friends with why you support Hillary
By Rick Barton
Under the best of circumstances, our American political process can be unwieldy and exasperating. It is not clear that a committed citizen can make a difference. I have always been optimistic, feeling that America will find a way. But, as a New Englander, I believe that we must remain vigilant and be rigorous to earn it. Good results are not guaranteed.
This is especially true in this year’s election. There is an unpredictable quality that is deeply concerning — and so we must all make the extra effort. That is why I am writing about my friend, Hillary Clinton, and why I believe she will be a terrific president.
For three years, I was lucky to work for Hillary Clinton while she was Secretary of State. She was a great boss. We spoke about the job, she gave me the support and room to pursue what we discussed, and she was always well prepared, thoughtful and considerate. Hillary let us know that we were important to her team.
Hillary was an engaged leader and it showed. When my dad died, Hillary called our home and touched our hearts. Her mother had recently passed and we spoke about the hole in our lives. When decisions I made were challenged, she showed her support in an upfront way. When she grew concerned about Syria, Nigeria, or north Central America, we were alerted early. She sought out ideas and encouraged creativity and innovation. I saw she cared and was dedicated to a more peaceful world.
Earlier this year, in conversation with my college roommate, Tom Shook, we wondered how we could do more to help get Hillary elected. We decided that we would write an email to at least 25 friends, relatives, and undecided, and encourage them to do the same. Tom sent me his wise and powerful letter in which he wrote about his positive reasons for supporting Hillary and cited the abundant and threatening weaknesses of her opponent. Tom was clear: “I do not believe this is a ‘lesser of two evils’ choice.” Nor do I.
Presidents need a rich blend of experience, policies, and temperament — and Hillary will bring those to the White House.
Now, in this fraught election season, we need to support her. Our country and our world will be well served and I believe you will find her to be as impressive and constructive as I have.
Please join us in writing 25 of your friends and help elect Hillary as our next president.
Rick Barton is a lecturer at Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School and a former Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations at the US Department of State.
Idealists4Hillary is a grassroots group of volunteers who believe that Secretary Clinton’s strategy for global engagement, development and humanitarian relief reflects American values and will make us safer and stronger. We engage people who care about these issues, including students, faith communities, diaspora groups, and foreign policy and global development practitioners, among others.
JOIN US HERE and help us amplify messages, support field offices, organize get out the vote activities, and energize voters by connecting with them on the impact of global development.
