Editor,

Yes, I attended the Donald Trump rally Monday night in Springfield. I also happen to be a liberal Democrat. In fact, I’m the Treasurer of the local Democratic Party back home. So what business did I have at a campaign rally for one of the most popular and controversial GOP presidential candidates?

The answer is that I am fascinated by all things political. Being from downstate Illinois, it is a rarity to have the opportunity to observe national political figures in person. Due to my political activities, I have been fortunate enough to meet two of the most consequential political figures of the era; President Obama and Hillary Clinton. Both visited towns in this area, and I was thrilled to be a part of these rare happenings.

While the words of Obama and Clinton were certainly more pleasing to my ears than anything Mr. Trump said; I still believe it is important for us all to expose ourselves to other points of view. Ultimately, it is the disconnect between ideologies that breeds the political gridlock that shuts down governments and delays budgets.

While my attending a Trump rally won’t solve a budget crisis, I am still glad I went. I had an opportunity to observe first hand what drives his national support, and can claim to have seen one of the most famous people on Earth.

Although it may be awhile until another national figure stops to visit us, I hope you will take the advantage of the opportunity the next time around. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!