Commentary: NEA President Lily Eskelsen García issued the following statement to the media following tonight’s presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump:
“Hillary Clinton made the case to the American people that she is the only candidate able to provide steady leadership as our next commander in chief. She articulated her fundamental belief that we’re stronger when we stand together as one nation rather than when we are divided. Just like the first debate, she was the clear winner tonight.
“Donald Trump has made it clear that he has zero respect for women. He has been caught bragging about sexual assault and consistently makes horrific comments about women. He mocks the disabled, attacks Americans based on their ethnicity or religion, and bullies his opponents. His words and actions are dangerous for our nation and set a terrible example for children.
“Trump’s flagrant and ridiculous attempt to soften his image following his abysmal first debate performance and his constant barrage of offensive remarks isn’t fooling voters. He may try to disavow or hide from his past remarks but we will not let him off the hook.
“Make no mistake. Trump remains the most temperamentally unfit and transparently unqualified candidate to ever seek the highest office in our country. Trump’s wholehearted disdain for the truth and affinity for fear-mongering will haunt him until the end.
“Hillary Clinton brings a vision of greater opportunity for all, not just a few. Hillary Clinton tonight not only aced the debate but she masterfully conveyed why she the choice of educators for president.”
The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing nearly 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers. Learn more at www.nea.org.