The presidential debate was a complete and utter shit show. It was full of insults, put downs, and constant interruptions between the two candidates. It was like watching your parents fight and just wanting them to get a damn divorce already -- was a giant bummer.
But there was a teeny tiny smidgen of humanity and kindness and it came at the end when town hall participant Karl Becker posed a final question to Trump and Clinton:
“Regardless of the current rhetoric, would either of you name one positive thing that you respect in one another?”
“I think that's a very fair and important question,” said Clinton. “I respect his children. His children are incredibly able and devoted and I think that says a lot about Donald. I don't agree with nearly anything else he says or does, but I respect that and think that is something that as a mother and a grandmother is very important to me. So I believe that this election has become in part so conflict-oriented and so intense because there is a lot at stake.”
Trump then accepted Clinton’s compliment, and gave her one as well. “She doesn't quit and doesn't give up. I respect that... She is a fighter. I disagree with much of what she is fighting for. I do disagree with her judgment in many cases, but she fights hard and doesn't quit or give up, but that is a good trait.”
This was arguably the only decent moment from the entire 90 minute debate. It forced the candidates to step off of their hamster wheels of hatred, if only for a moment.
Thank you Karl and thank you to all the people who appreciate Karl's question.
Be like Karl.