Max Gordon, you write a sensitive take on Pete Buttigieg in the frame of race, sexuality and you. Full of nuance and questioning that is delightful.

Buttigieg is one man, and is flawed for sure—I think that he would genuinely say as much. We are choosing a President though, without perhaps the perfect qualities demanded when choosing a mate. We can live with Pete not being perfect. As with democracy, all Pete has to be is better than all the rest — Churchill. Just how this guy ticks for you, however, is valid and valuable — his believes and understandings, and what he is capable of?

A big plus in Pete’s favor (and altimately for us in choosing him) is that he has the ingredients to grow. He is clever and knows how to learn (Kennedy, Bill Clinton and Obama all had this). And, part of that quality is a genuine ability to listen to people — to embrace others words, and experience. This is very different from the pretense of attention in the Elizabeth Warren selfie.

I think of Pete as a fine looking plant with good head and robust roots that when planted will grow tall and strong —and bear fruit for our well being.