Does anyone really know where Donald Trump stands on the political spectrum (right, left, center)? Does anyone really know his basic solutions for solving the pressing problems of our time - illegal immigration, entitlements, unemployment, Middle East turmoil, U.S. prestige, etc.? 

Mere ranting, railing and braggadocio, does nothing but inflame the electorate and replace much needed discourse with political theater. I am amazed that Donald Trump has apparently convinced large numbers of potential voters that he is the white knight that can solve our problems. I am also deeply troubled that a significant number of Republicans (my party) have fallen for the phony elixir of this carnival-like medicine man. 

Donald Trump is a classic narcissist, a person with excessive interest in oneself. Not only that, but he is rude, contemptuous, boastful and buffoonish. 

The Trump phenomenon resembles a flu-like political epidemic. Unfortunately, there does not yet appear to be an effective treatment or an available vaccine against this contemporary malady. 

The media seem intent on spreading this infection instead of elevating the political process. Woe to us if this contagion continues to spread. 

John E. Willson

Essex