Scott Walker at the 2015 Iowa Ag Summit Photo credit: Dave Davidson - Prezography.com
Scott Walker at the 2015 Iowa Ag Summit
Photo credit: Dave Davidson – Prezography.com

“A politician thinks of the next election – a statesman of the next generation.” – James Freeman Clarke

Dr. Susan Berry’s piece on Gov. Scott Walker is a must read.  It is a narrative of a governor running against the grain of his election promises.

Time and time again, we put our trust in candidates whom we hope are statesmen.  We pray that they will follow in the footsteps of George Washington, John Adams, Samuel Adams, and Abraham Lincoln.  That’s not to say that any one of those historical figures was perfect.  But what separates them from today’s vapid politician is the will to fight.  They relished the fight for what is right much more than winning an election.

Today, we are afflicted with politicians pining for their next election or their next appointment.  To them, issues exist as a means of getting elected.  A mere checklist.  Do a little something on this issue, say a little something on that issue, and soon you have enough votes to win the election.

It can be hard to separate the wheat from the chaff.  Most candidates, particularly those running for president, garnered a reputation for having done something, for having driven an issue or cause.  But many reveal their true character after they reach celebrity status.  They worry about that status and avoid the good fight.  They morph from statesman to politician.

Or, perhaps, they simply reveal their true character.

You May Also Like

The Kasich Scenario

Adam Graham: John Kasich is no more selfish than any other person who decides to run for the presidency. He sees an opportunity to salvage his campaign.

Mike Huckabee Continues to Disappoint With Trump Advocacy

Shane Vander Hart: Gov. Mike Huckabee as a surrogate for Donald Trump attacked U.S. Senators Ted Cruz, Ben Sasse and Jeff Flake and looked petty doing it.

Pete Buttigieg Ends His Presidential Campaign

Former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg suspended his presidential campaign in a speech given in South Bend, Ind. following the South Carolina Primary.

Hurricane Huckabee To Arrive in Tampa Bay Monday Night

What started out as a tempest in a teapot is now threatening…