Brian Cady: How should we choose a U.S. president?

In choosing a U.S. President, what matters? First, I think U.S. presidents should use force in line with law, respond to violence against the U.S. only with measured, equivalent violence against perpetrators (not convenient scapegoats), should avoid needless civilian casualties, and should stop the U.S. from using or aiding disproportionate force against civilians, by even “friendly nations.” What do you think?

Second, I think U.S. presidents should conduct foreign policy in ways unlikely to spur violent counter-attacks; in ways that spur business and cultural exchanges between nations. What do you think?

Third, I think U.S. presidents should accept science, understand science and heed scientists’ advice on the scientists’ areas of expertise, especially when strong majorities of such scientists agree. Further, I assess the current situation worldwide as dire due to an industrial-greenhouse-gas-induced climate crisis threatening our agriculture. What do you think?

Which presidential candidates abide by these guidelines? Donald Trump doesn’t, nor does Kamala Harris. Here, we are forced to turn to third party candidates. Ballotpedia states these ‘Notable Candidates’ of 2024 have enough potential electoral college votes to win the U.S. presidency: Chase Oliver, Dr. Jill Stein, Donald Trump, Kamala Harris. Both Oliver and Dr. Stein have declared support for more peaceful, diplomatic foreign policy approaches. Of these two, who has a science background? Oliver’s bio lists no science training or experience. Dr. Stein is a Harvard-trained medical doctor . Medical training typically involves much study and understanding of science. Hence for me, the 2024 U.S Presidential choice is clear.

Brian Cady

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