Red herrings muddy the waters.

We need to elect a new governor.

In theory, we will elect the person who, based on competence,
character and courage, would be the best person to lead us out
of the quagmire.

In practice, the political discourse never seems to settle on the
issues or even on the candidates. Instead it surrounds the "all"
Republicans are this, or, "all" Democrats are that.

Regardless of their party affiliation, there is a best candidate
for the job. We need to focus more on that, and less on holding
them responsible for the sins of the wackiest in their respective
parties.

It is no more fair to hold a Democrat responsible for the musings
of Javier Gonzales, than it would be to hold a Republican
responsible for the the comments of Harvey Yates.

... just sayin'.