GAMES PEOPLE PLAY, especially politicians

I'm a second-time around candidate for State House in Montana.  I'm in it again because no one else will run in my district as a Democrat.  I don't mind researching and arguing my side of an issue (although my debate skills leave something to be desired).  And I can't bear not being represented during this particular presidential election year.

Puzzling situations develop.  This is one.

A phone call from a friend asks a question.  "Are you going to the Town Hall meeting?"  Since I didn't see the notice in our local paper, she explains where and when it will be held and names the sponsor:  one of the three Republicans running for the same office as I. 

I have had somewhat-friendly dealings with this person who has a part-time job at City Hall.  I call him, leave a message on his answer machine.  "I'd like to attend your meeting [professional courtesy call, so to speak].  I could introduce myself and say a few words."

His response is recorded on my machine.  "The simple answer is 'No,' he says.  "This is my political event sponsored by me to get support for my campaign.  Your coming would be irregular at best if others got you confused as one of my supporters."  I'm taken aback.

Next morning, I call another Democrat friend.  He will be attending the meeting that evening and suggests I do as well.  (The meeting will be held in a room at our public school.)  However, I remember viewing gatherings of other candidates and see that the candidate has the right to have a protestor removed.  I would prefer not to be removed.  Maybe my competitor gets the wrong message from me on his phone.  I can make clear that I don't have to say a thing.  Instead, I can observe and listen.  Isn't that a compliment?

I call my competitor and this time he answers the phone.  I clarify my intent (to listen and learn) and again he responds, "No.  I'm spending money on this meeting and want to get support for my campaign."  I'm actually struck by the imperiousness of his tone and attitude.  Is this typical of all Republicans or only those like Donald Trump?

I don't attend.  Two Democrat friends do and report back.  It seems to be an unusual "town hall".  Introductions are made of three other Republican candidates (for other offices) as well as himself and a few words said by each one.  No discussion or questions are elicited from the small group who attends.  Some refreshments are provided.

I ask myself:  What is he up to?  Is he trying to hide something?  Or is this just a "Republican thing"?  Maybe I'll find out tomorrow.  He is scheduled to speak 10 minutes at the Senior Citizen luncheon.  Although I will be late to another noon meeting, I will stop by -- to observe, learn, and listen.