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To the editor:
With all the back-and-forth regarding what Democrats get wrong and Republicans get right, let’s set something straight. No Democratic presidential candidate (even those who won their races) has ever won a majority of white voters since LBJ signed the 1964 Civil Rights Act and 1965’s Voting Rights Act into law. That isn’t a coincidence; it is the result of deep-seated and persistent racism.
In general, GOP presidential candidates have consistently received 55-60 percent of the white vote, with higher majorities among men, since the 1968 election; a perfect 15 to zero, 56-year streak. Over this time period, the only time a Democrat won was when a previous Republican administration made a mess. Swing voters brought victories to Jimmy Carter after Watergate, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama after financial meltdowns and Joe Biden following the mismanagement of the pandemic.
Let me be clear, I am not alleging that all Republican voters are racists. I am stating, unequivocally, that all racists vote Republican and have done so in 15 straight presidential elections. I also maintain that the breadth of this problem is a very real danger to our democracy. Until Americans face the very real role widespread racial prejudice plays in our politics and everyday life, our country will remain divided and continue its backward slide.
Welcoming immigrants and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion aren’t threats to America. These principles are our only hope for a united, secure, prosperous future.
Joseph Cannisi
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