The need for leaders with character

Dear Editor:

I am dismayed by the position of many that character flaws in political leaders can be overlooked if the political agenda of those leaders aligns with their views. My position is that the character of our political leaders matters greatly. A leader with poor values and character will have an overall negative effect on the country that cannot be counter balanced by the accomplishments of their political agenda. 

Recent events have demonstrated how leaders of low moral character have caused great damage by encouraging others to behave dishonestly, to hate, to condone violence, and to change established democratic norms of equity and fairness. 

People with differing opinions and perspectives are labeled as enemies, persecuted, and purged. As a result, short sighted and dangerous decisions are made based on limited perspectives as opposing voices of reason are drowned out. Corrupt leaders enact laws to limit dissent and to restrict voting rights so they can remain in power. Once in power, it is increasingly difficult to remove them, even if their actions prove to be increasingly harmful.

If our leaders exemplify well established norms of honesty, respect for others and for the law, and selfless service, then the citizens will likewise be inclined to emulate those higher values for the good of all. 

People of good character exist on all sides of the political spectrum. People are not good or bad because they have different political viewpoints. However, how they treat others and how they pursue those political agendas reveals their good or bad character. Pursuit of a political agenda does not justify lies, law breaking, contention, threats, bullying, and demeaning or dehumanizing rhetoric. It is our responsibility to elect people of high character who will support our political viewpoints by means that are honorable and fair.

Let us have the moral courage and integrity to demand leaders of character. Let us see clearly and not excuse a leader’s poor character for the sake of a political agenda. Let us use our votes to elect leaders with character for our own good and for the good of our democratic society. 

Dan Fairholm

Ashburn