By David O. Heishman
Unbased First Published on 12/16/2025
The tip of the iceberg. President Richard Nixon talked a lot about the Great Silent Majority of Americans. Compared them to an iceberg occasionally. A group of citizens largely hidden beneath the surface of American politics. He’d comment that anyone who could understand, speak for, and gain support of this massive portion of citizenry could become the visible tip.
Donald Trump just might be that tip. Trouble is that he’s an actor. A “successful” rich man, but is he sincere? Does he speak from conviction or is he reciting lines he knows will resonate with folks in the privacy of their homes?
I believe our country is full of Archie and Edith Bunkers. These characters from the television show, “All In The Family” played before our present age of political correctness. Archie said what he thought in language common Americans used, seldom tempering his remarks even at wife, Edith’s insistence.
America comes home from work, does whatever small chores are necessary, then props its feet up to unwind from today and begin recharging for tomorrow. Conversation is limited to family and perhaps a few close friends, all of whom may be hung up on cell phone or Facebook.. Opinions you voice are personal, in simple, sometimes pithy language. Political correctness is last worry unless some “enlightened” family member takes great exception.
The masses may or may not visit the ballot box. They may just let other folks go to the trouble. Decision not to vote personally likely stems from belief that it’s a waste of time. One lousy vote won’t change their world unless all such votes are focused by a person who speaks their language.
News writers, columnists and commentators aren’t conditioned to guide the silent majority. They’ve made careers out of addressing people who make news. News sells papers, gains television ratings and impresses advertisers. All that helps their bottom financial line. Media may in fact be leading the politically correct parade because every personal and public protest against hurt feelings is a possible selling news story. It’s publicity for those who seek publicity instead of simple peace and quiet.
I’m still a Democrat. Have been since the days of father/son conversations in front seat of Pap’s old Studebaker on way home from evening veterinary calls. I’ll likely remain Democrat for more opportunities to pick through Hard County candidates for local office. I’ll not be able to vote for Republican candidates for President in our Primary Election.
General Election is a different matter. I can tell you now that if the General comes down to choice between Donald Trump and Democrat, Hillary Clinton, I will vote for Trump. I’ll vote for anybody Republicans have running right now before I’d vote for either Socialist, Bernie Sanders or Hillary Clinton. Every time I see a picture of Hillary Clinton I see back side of her middle finger raised in my face.
So, who should Republicans select? Cruz and Rubio are Republican Obamas in my book. No other experience in life except political and that only brief. Silver tongued, perhaps, yet still no proof they can lead. I’d go for either Chris Christie, Governor of New Jersey or John Kasich, Governor of Ohio. Trouble is they may not make it to the ballot because their ratings are so low now.
I think Trump may force a split in Republican Party which will likely lead to a Hillary Presidency. OR if rejected by Republicans he may run as Independent thus splitting Republican voters and handing Presidency to Hillary. OR he may in fact be the true Tip of the Iceberg and win through to be our next President.
