E Pluribus Unum: For the People NOT the Party

Political Leadership Gets Nastier with No Honor

Unfortunately, for the country, party attacks on one another are increasingly negative, according the Pew Research. Some recent political ads are calling their opponents terrorists. There is no honor in political attacks like that. Politicians are perceiving their adversaries as enemies. Each side claims their brand of patriotism.

So, the legislative branch of the government has the nickname of the “do nothing Congress”.  A democracy requires bi-partisan collaboration, cooperation and compromise to get important things done. That is not happening. As a result, only 15% of Americans feel Congress is doing a decent job.

Does any of this sounds like “E pluribus unum” to you?

In addition, use of social media by the parties provokes the situation. A mass volume of tweets and posts ignite discord and extremism. This volume grows fast as people share their views.  As a result, the country ends up with severe ranges in emotion. These things divide people even more. It tends to get nasty and personal. Consequently, people’s anger explodes. They become more loyal in their points of view. Then, of course, it is always someone else’s fault or failing. Political leaders with no honor feed on this like a pack of wolves on a wounded deer. Does this inspire us to work together?

The US civil war showed what chaotic division brings. It usually ends up with hatred, intolerance, violence, and even war.

A Call for Honorable Leadership & E Pluribus Unum

Instead, give me authentic leaders. We need leaders of honor that speak of and act on unity.  This does not mean we always agree. It does mean we treat one another with respect, empathy and dignity. We listen to one another. Above all, honorable servant leaders seek what is good for the country. They do not just focus on their perspective, party or pocketbook. Certainly, politicians need take a serious personal inventory. We must maximize, “we, the people”. We must minimize, “we, the party”.  

In summary, it is time our leaders assimilate and model the words like the above by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And these, “May I stress the need of courageous, intelligent, dedicated leadership. Leaders of sound integrity. Leaders not in love with publicity but in love with justice. Also, leaders not in love with money but in love with humanity. Leaders who can subject their egos to the greatness of the cause.”