Before I actually dive into why Democrat Presidential candidate, Tulsi Gabbard’s “present” vote caught my attention during the highly volatile impeachment of President Donald Trump, I just want to preface this with a little background on me. I’ve been a staunch Independent with conservative leanings for as long as I can remember. Most of my family are straight-up Republicans and the majority of my friends are left-leaning Democrats. I also grew up in a bar. Yes, my family owned and operated a bar in the City of Newburgh, NY for about ten years and there is a cardinal rule in bars; you don’t talk about religion, race or politics.
That being said, coupled with my more diplomatic nature and openness for most things, plus the wisdom or obstinate mindset that comes with age, I usually keep my opinions to myself – unless someone asks. Well, my Crypto, Trader, News. team asked. And while I don’t intend to be full-throttle like my opinionated friend, Matt Harris, I will share some of my political thoughts with the hope that we can stop to listen for a moment and see if there is merit within all sides of the political arena.
Let’s Talk Tulsi
Tulsi Gabbard was born April 12, 1981, and at the age of 38 she has already served two tours of duty in the Middle East, is presently a major in the U.S. Army National Guard and serves on the Foreign Affairs, Armed Services, and Homeland Security Committees in Congress. Elected in 2012, Gabbard is a Representative of Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district.
“Present”
On December 18, 2019, the House called their representatives to the floor to vote for two articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump. Standing alone, Tulsi Gabbard was the only congressperson who voted “Present” in lieu of a yea or nay. Critics have been tearing into this candidate calling her vote weak, cowardly, inexcusable, defiant, and rebellious.
If you were to go through Twitter, it seems no politician is off limits and the spectrum between support and outright rage is broad. I am enraged and mortified that anyone would call a combat veteran a coward regardless of party affiliation. As an Army brat, veteran’s wife, and Marine Corps mama (times two), I have this to say: Show some damned respect!
One thing that is glaringly clear; the House impeachment was anything but bipartisan and I’m fairly surprised that more representatives didn’t vote “present,” especially the 31 House Democrats who won in predominantly Trump districts, whose seat may be in jeopardy in 2020.
Rep. Gabbard released a statement in regard to her impeachment vote and I would encourage everyone to read it.
What does Tulsi Gabbard’s solo vote tell me?
Well, I’ve taken a couple of days to actually think about this. On one hand, I’ve heard her defend her position. As an Independent, I appreciate her saying that this impeachment process is a zero-sum game. For those who don’t know what that means, it is defined as a situation where there is no net gain among the participants. In essence, it’s like staring at your pencil, willing it to move and never does; an exercise in futility that reaps nothing but frustration. And what’s worse, this impeachment was like inviting the world to stare at that stupid pencil, willing it to move. What came from it? Absolutely nothing but a divided country because one side said this is stupid, and the other side said, keep staring because that pencil’s going to move, dammit.
On the other hand, her solo vote certainly raised eyebrows and caught the attention of mainstream news outlets; something that candidates like Gabbard and Andrew Yang have been sorely lacking. This could have been a political stunt to boost her, dare I say, notoriety.
Gabbard has been clear that she does not agree with the President’s policies, but as a soldier and patriot, I believe she loves the United States to vote her conscience and take advantage of the spotlight when the MSM deems her worthy of it. I can only surmise from the treatment that she is getting, from new outlets and social media, that the DNC doesn’t support her candidacy. Perhaps she’s got a little too much rebellion and independent thinking for their liking?
Here’s the latest statement she made about her decision to vote “present” on the Trump impeachment.
Where do you stand?
I have to appreciate someone who stands by their convictions. Tulsi's arguments are fair and thought out. She stood alone and she's taking the heat for it. Regardless of your political affiliation, that, in the very least, deserves a little recognition.
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment on our Twitter thread.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on Crypto, Trader, News. are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our site, its affiliates or third-party applications.
