To the editor:

My preferred candidate for president is Elizabeth Warren.

I have friends who agree with me, and I meet many who are dubious. Before the Presidential Primary on March 10, I hope to persuade the doubters.

People are fixated on President Trump, and the question is, “Who can be counted upon to defeat him?” I answer that question by putting it in a larger frame: Who can be counted upon to unite the Democratic Party and do what needs to be done, to inspire Americans and restore our nation after the divisive and destructive Trump regime?

The next president has to deal with more than the consequences of malignant mismanagement. The effects of gross inequalities in opportunities and income, an addiction to fossil fuels, and accelerating changes in the climate system have been building up for more than two decades, and we must turn away from short term thinking and small-government fixes.

Senator Warren is locked now in a respectful rivalry with Senator Sanders. I admire Bernie Sanders, but let’s not be sentimental: I can’t see him as an effective leader of the party and our bi-partisan federal government.

In Elizabeth Warren, I see the necessary broad-based ability, and also the integrity and sharp intellect needed to overcome Trump’s falsehoods and bullying.

JON QUITSLUND

Bainbridge Island