Political hate speech needs to go

The venom and vitriol in political speech needs to stop. The Democratic hate speech of late was adopted by a true believer, who took murderous action in Alexandria, Va., apparently based on those thoughts. I wish these hateful thoughts, words and behavior would come to an end.

I am not necessarily asking for changes in one’s philosophies or that people should modify what they advocate. I just wish we could be civil and have policy debates without the name calling and personal attacks. Instead of trying to change Washington with violence, let’s try changing others through discussions and debates. Whatever happened to loving our neighbor?

Yes, Trump also is guilty of ugly words and personal attacks. These too should cease.

I am independent for a number of reasons, but this political haranguing is one reason I dislike both parties. Too many elected officials are guilty of hate speech.

This story was originally published June 17, 2017 at 9:13 PM with the headline "Political hate speech needs to go."