I watched the presidential debate this week. It was a dismal, disappointing experience, (“A halting Biden tries to confront Trump at debate but sparks Democratic anxiety about his candidacy,” June 27). One candidate is no longer physically fit enough to continue for four more years. The other candidate is not mentally fit enough, is a pathological liar and is too narcissistic to be given presidential power again. Two things are clear: President Joe Biden is frail and lacks the stamina to continue in this role, and former president Donald Trump is neither honest nor trustworthy.

On our best days, Americans are innovative, enterprising, compassionate and giving. We are open to others, and we care about fairness and the rule of law. We are a multicultural people with diverse experiences and perspectives to share with each other. Together in our abundant nation, we are capable of solving complex problems.

This is what I was looking for in the debate - signs of our vitality. What I saw instead were two old white men, sharing staleness and stubbornness rather than vibrancy, openness and thoughtfulness. It’s time that the Democrats find a candidate for this moment in our national life. Too much is at stake for more handwringing, whitewashing, and magical thinking. A second Trump presidency would be disastrous for our country, and Nov. 5 will be here before we know it.

Lowell Greathouse, Forest Grove

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