When a demagogue like Trump comes along, it shakes me to the core because I have seen what happens to societies that, in desperation, turn to demagogues. I honestly believe Trump could be a very, very dangerous man who steers this country to a dark place. And I would hate myself for being part of the rabble that enabled him. So for now I am going to cling to the hope that my party comes to its senses before I am stuck with a personal ethical dilemma of monumental proportions.
I respect you, your opinion and your writing talent, but feel the need to remind you that America in 2016 is not Germany in the 1930s. If anything this is America in 1980.
I also don't think Trump is a demagogue. Donald Trump explains his positions and presents rational arguments for why he holds them: Unchecked illegal immigration, international trade deals that do not help the US economy and US worker, revamping the US military for victory in the 21st century, declaring ISIS an out-and-out enemy of the US and joining with like-minded allies to destroy it, the role of Assad--a bad guy--in Middle East stability, explaining to Congressional Republicans how the art of the deal can lead to the implementation of Republican policy--even if it's one step at a time.
This list of positions are what I consider to be "the big ticket items". And judging by Trump's support, the majority of Americans agree with me--and I think on some level you do too. Granted, this primary season is unlike any in recent memory. It's brash, loud and made for TV. The Republican frontrunner is not like Bush (any of them), Dole, McCain, or Romney. Trump is self-confident, aggressive and loud. And he has awakened a dispirited electorate. Good for him - - - and good for us.
I do not completely understand the personal ethical dilemma of monumental proportions you are facing. But I do wish you luck and offer my assistance and support as you move through it.