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Letters to the Editor

There’s no relationship between Lincoln and today’s GOP

Jim Getty of Gettysburg, Pa., appears in silhouette as President Abraham Lincoln. Getty will once again deliver the Gettysburg Address in Gettysburg on the 150th anniversary of the celebrated speech. (Michael S. Wirtz/Philadelphia Inquirer/MCT)
Jim Getty of Gettysburg, Pa., appears in silhouette as President Abraham Lincoln. Getty will once again deliver the Gettysburg Address in Gettysburg on the 150th anniversary of the celebrated speech. (Michael S. Wirtz/Philadelphia Inquirer/MCT) MCT

I am genuinely puzzled by Republicans who constantly refer to themselves as being part of “the party of Lincoln.” Yes, Abraham Lincoln was a Republican president, and perhaps these people are unaware of our country’s history.

But even if they have never heard of the Republicans’ “Southern strategy,” used to lure white voters concerned about the civil rights movement away from the Democratic Party, and the complete realignment of our political parties, claiming Lincoln as a standard bearer still makes no sense.

Lincoln’s governing philosophy would be anathema to today’s party; he would certainly be called a RINO, if not worse.

If you are a proud Republican today, be honest and call your party the party of Trump, or at least Nixon.

Leigh Price

Columbia

The State publishes a cross section of the letters we receive from South Carolinians in order to provide a forum for our community and also to allow our community to get a good look at itself, for good or bad. The letters represent the views of the letter writers, not necessarily of The State.

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