The Arizona Republic has endorsed Hillary Clinton for president, and it is the first time in the history of the newspaper that it has backed a Democrat.
The paper made its decision known in an editorial published Tuesday titled, “Hillary Clinton Is the Only Choice to Move America Ahead.”
The editorial begins, "Since The Arizona Republic began publication in 1890, we have never endorsed a Democrat over a Republican for president. Never. This reflects a deep philosophical appreciation for conservative ideals and Republican principles."
The newspaper said that the challenges the U.S. faces domestically and internationally demand “a steady hand, a cool head, and the ability to think carefully before acting.”
“Hillary Clinton understands this. Donald Trump does not,” the editorial board writes. “Clinton has the temperament and experience to be president. Donald Trump does not.”
The Republic acknowledged that Clinton has made some mistakes, pointing to her use of a private email server and raising questions about donations to the Clinton Foundation, but said that despite her flaws, she is the superior choice: “She does not casually say things that embolden our adversaries and frighten our allies. Her approach to governance is mature, confident, and rational.”
The Republic said that Donald Trump’s inability to control himself or be controlled by others “represents a real threat to our national security,” adding, “The president commands our nuclear arsenal. Trump can’t command his own rhetoric.”
The newspaper concludes that in a nation with an increasingly diverse population, Trump offers a “recipe for permanent civil discord.”
America needs to look ahead and build a new era of prosperity for the working class.
This is Hillary Clinton’s opportunity. She can reach out to those who feel left behind. She can make it clear that America sees them and will address their concerns.
She can move us beyond rancor and incivility.
The editorial leaves no doubt as to its position and ends with finality, “The Arizona Republic endorses Hillary Clinton for president.”
Read more at the Arizona Republic.