What Is on the Ballot

As those of you who follow these blog/updates know, I do my best to steer clear of politics. I have dipped a toe in the water a few times, losing a toe or two in the process, but mainly I’ve stayed mum. I think many of you already know where I stand, although not necessarily.

I avoid politics here because, on the one hand, I respect your opinions, or at least your right to have those opinions. On the other hand, I don’t wish to alienate potential or current customers (as Mickey Spillane described his readers). Some time ago – and many of you already know this – I stopped posting anything on Facebook that was inherently political. I do post these updates there, and if someone posts something about a book or movie of mine, I sometimes share it.

And I belong to groups at Facebook on topics ranging from comics to movies, from paperback collecting to pin-ups. Within these groups, I often make comments – apolitical comments.

When I was on Facebook and getting into the political battle – even aware, as I was, that no argument has ever been won on the Internet – I lost or at least damaged one of my most cherished friendships. There are people I work with and people I love do who not share my politics, which is another reason why I have (largely) kept my mouth shut here.

But – as eighteenth century Irish statesman Edmund Burke said – “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” My collaborator Matthew Clemens included that quote within the text of our forthcoming novel, Come Spy With Me, when JFK urges secret agent John Sand to come out of retirement.

So. I am going to urge you to vote. But I am also going to remind you what – not who – is on the ballot this time.

Civility. Decency. Science. Honesty. Equality. Empathy. Democracy.

I am tempted to add these words from the opening of the old Superman TV show: “Truth, Justice and the American Way.” Here. Take a look.

Now, notice I haven’t mentioned anyone by name. Barb and I have already voted. If you know who I’m talking about, and are considering voting for him, I would invite you first to reflect.

M.A.C.