The roll call of states at the convention in Cleveland sounded pretty much the same as always: the usual goofy and good-natured trumpeting of regional pride in favored politicians, notable landmarks, and record-setting agricultural yields. But, of course, it was not the same as always. Not at all.
Donald J. Trump is now officially the Republican nominee for President of the United States. Let that statement sink in for a moment.
As a Democrat and fervent Hillary supporter, I suppose I should be experiencing some sort of partisan pleasure that the other side has put forward such a weak standard-bearer. Instead, I find myself feeling terribly sad. This is a shameful moment for America and will remain a stain on our history for as long as the Republic endures.