Americans need leaders with courage, integrity, vision and a willingness to united our Trumpian Republican maga divided nation

During Abraham Lincoln’s first inaugural address in March 1861, he was desperately wishing to avoid a civil war. Lincoln said, “We are not enemies, but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.”

In Lincoln’s second inaugural address, just 41 days before his assassination at the Ford's Theater in Washington DC, the president spoke about the difficulties of reconstruction and the process of restoring the seceded states to the Union. 

Lincoln’s message emphasized healing rather than vengeance toward the South. He called on all citizens to “bind up the nation’s wounds, with malice toward none and charity for all.”

Trump is cruel to exploit the nation's divisions: Opinion letter published in The Columbian, news By Ken Simpson, Vancouver, Washington state (Clark County Washington). 

My sentiment of needing another Abraham Lincoln today refers to a longing for his leadership qualities, such as his courage, integrity, vision and willingness to unite a divided nation.

Donald Trump has a history of comparing himself to Abraham Lincoln. But Lincoln’s historical image as a unifying figure contrasts with Donald’s polarizing style. Lincoln used words to inspire and heal. Trump’s words hurt the ears and the heart.

Honest Abe wanted to hold the country together. Donald does the opposite. He is working toward creating a division that serves as a basis for his rule.