Time to acknowledge broken promises

During the presidential election many people overlooked actions by Trump that they would not tolerate in a child including lying, boasting, stereotyping, and ridiculing others. I think people tolerated these behaviors because they believed some of Trump’s promises. Given that, let’s examine whether Trump is keeping his major promises.

Trump promised to increase respect for America abroad. Instead he has insulted allies, cozied up to Putin, been forced to walk back statements and created confusion about America’s role in the world.

Trump promised to force Mexico to pay for a “great wall.” Now, he wants American tax payers to pick up the bill.

Trump promised to “drain the swamp”. Instead he staffed his administration with billionaires, former lobbyists and questionable characters who have created numerous scandals.

Trump promised to help average Americans.Instead he is creating a bonanza for the wealthy and betrayed many who supported him. The health care plan he promoted would have resulted in millions losing coverage, increased premiums on seniors and slashed Medicaid while lavishing billions on tax cuts for the rich. His proposed federal budget would jeopardize programs like Meals on Wheels, while undermining efforts to protect the environment and prevent another financial crisis.

If we are to move forward as a country, he will all have to face reality. Clinton supporters will need to get over their disappointment and anger about the election results. Trump supporters must have the courage to criticize Trump’s behaviors when they know them to be wrong. They should also admit that they hitched their wagon to a pony that will not take them where they want to go.

This story was originally published April 13, 2017 at 6:00 PM with the headline "Time to acknowledge broken promises."