By James W. Dolan
Reporter Columnist
Some on the religious right argue that Donald Trump has been chosen by God to preserve traditional moral values and lead the nation away from the evils of secularism, commercialism, progressivism, and the sexualization of society. They view this seriously flawed man is the instrument for a rebirth of family values, religious devotion, and the protection of the unborn.
For them, “character” does not matter so long as he appoints to the federal bench conservative justices who will protect what they view as traditional family values. I understand their concern about abortions, but fail to see what opposition to same-sex marriage, gun control, and separation of church and state has to do with family values.
As an old white guy, I grew up in what seemed a simpler, less confusing time with far fewer distractions. It is easy to understand the nostalgia those of my generation feel for the innocence of our youth. If you were white, straight, financially secure and healthy, life was good. There was little contact and even less attention given to those who did not share in the benefits we took for granted.
To believe that Trump, whose behavior is the antithesis of what I consider Christian values, is intent upon saving us from destructive forces represented by immorality, progressivism, immigration, technology, partisanship, and the so-called “deep state” is delusional. Measure him against the Beatitudes. Is there even one of those guideposts to a virtuous life that he embraces?
To what extent Trump is responsible for his obvious amorality is difficult to assess. He appears unable to recognize right from wrong. He likely suffers from a personality disorder that puts him at the center of his universe. Whatever he perceives as good for him is right while anything that threatens his self-image is wrong. Without a conscience or a firm hold on reality, he reacts impulsively. Trump is impaired. That may serve as an excuse for his errant behavior, or at least as a mitigating factor.
But what about those who should know better? By using him for their own benefit; be it the retention of power, influence, or financial gain, they condone behavior that serves their own ends but is harmful to the country. The difference between Trump and other presidents is not one simply of degree. None of our presidents, with the possible exception of Jimmy Carter, could be considered saints. It is a difference in kind; none posed as great a threat to the nation.
I feel sorry for our president. One can only guess at the forces in his life that gave rise to such insecurity. He could be a billionaire real estate mogul without doing too much harm. His eccentricities were more amusing than alarming. Now, he is in way over his head. What was once of little consequence is a significant threat to the equilibrium so important to a democracy.
The words spoken by Christ from the cross: “Forgive them, father, they know not what they do” have a universal application. We sometimes react without understanding either the merits or the consequences of our actions and can only hope we come to our senses before causing too much harm.
James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court judge who now practices law.
