Newspaper breaks with a century of tradition to oppose ‘erratic liar Trump’

America’s only national daily paper has become the latest publicaton to break with tradition by telling readers that Donald Trump is unfit to be president. Throughout its history, USA Today has remained neutral, endorsing or criticising individual policies without ever recommending a candidate. And, although the newspaper stops short of supporting Hillary Clinton, it has dismissed Donald Trump’s qualifications and temperament for the highest office. In a devastating critique, the newspaper described Trump as a “serial liar” who is erratic and who has “coarsened the national dialogue”.

From the day he declared his candidacy 15 months ago through this week’s first presidential debate, Trump has demonstrated repeatedly that he lacks the temperament, knowledge, steadiness and honesty that America needs from its presidents.

USA Today editorial board

Several other newspapers which have always endorsed Republicans have also shunned the billionaire businessman, and advised readers to vote for the Democrat candidate. USA Today advised its readers that Mrs Clinton has her flaws, so they may want to vote for another candidate but it concluded: “Whatever you do, however, resist the siren song of a dangerous demagogue. By all means vote, just not for Donald Trump.” Earlier this week, the Arizona Republic tore up more than a century of history and told its readers to vote for a Democrat. The newspaper declared: “The 2016 Republican candidate is not conservative and he is not qualified.”

The challenges the United States faces domestically and internationally demand a steady hand, a cool head and the ability to think carefully before acting. Hillary Clinton understands this. Donald Trump does not.

Arizona Republic

Politics