opinion

Roy Moore defeat would hurt Senate GOP majority

If the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate in Alabama were to withdraw, it would cause an automatic pickup of a Democratic seat in the Senate. Alabama law prohibits a party from substituting a new nominee within 76 days of a general election, and that deadline is past. While a write-in campaign is legal, it is almost impossible in a statewide election. It has never been done.

A Roy Moore withdrawal would mean that Democratic nominee Doug Jones wins. Jones does not reflect the views of the people of Alabama. He is for abortion at any time for any reason, even up to birth. He is against the Trump agenda. He supports Obamacare. He is against securing our borders with a wall and other measures. He is against the Trump tax reform plan.

OUR VIEW: How Moore and Alabama can work wonders for women

At this same point in the presidential election a year ago, a sensational sexual issue was inserted into the campaign. Right after, prospects appeared bleak for candidate Donald Trump, but he overcame it. Voters saw that vital issue differences between the candidates were the deciding point. Roy Moore can overcome unproven accusations from almost 40 years ago. The clear issue differences between the candidates now can trump (no pun intended) these 40-year-old allegations.

A defeat of Moore would mean the Republican Senate majority is reduced to 51-49, a dangerous number when the present 52-48 split is already not an effective working majority. It would endanger Senate confirmation of Supreme Court appointments and the Trump agenda.

The people of Alabama voted for Trump despite sexual innuendo. They will vote for Roy Moore.

Jim Zeigler is the state auditor of Alabama.

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