A television commercial actor says proudly that his insurance company “doesn’t hold grudges.” President Donald Trump does — even beyond the grave. While family, friends and others still mourn the passing of war hero Sen. John McCain, Trump never learned not to speak ill of the dead.

Those who served in the military hold special heroes like McCain, a tortured POW and long-time public servant. Trump, who received five deferments, including one for bone spurs in his heels, doesn’t understand this. Draft-dodgers never do.

I didn’t vote for McCain in his quest for the presidency. His views and mine were poles apart. But I greatly respected the man, never more so than when during his campaign he cut off a supporter who mouthed untrue things about McCain’s opponent, then-Sen. Barack Obama. I seriously doubt that Trump’s “lock her up” crowd would approve such civility.

I have come to understand that the president’s support base cares not that their leader is a liar and, I believe, a racist, a person who mocks the disabled, and worse. I now believe that he gives voice to their own dark sides, saying things they know to be wrong.

Even South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham came up lame in his response to Trump’s disrespect for his late pal. Sucking up to his new best friend is now more important to Graham. How pathetic.

Glenn R. Plummer

Unity

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