Honesty
There’s an old joke:
How do you know when a politician is lying? His lips are moving.
I suspect politicians deservedly gained this stereotype because many learned they could get away with lying. They could say different things to different groups of people, conflicting things even, and not get caught. In older times, news traveled slowly, so one group of constituents might hear their representative (or candidate) promise to vote FOR a particular issue and, further down the campaign trail, another group would hear the same politician promise to vote AGAINST that same issue… and the news of one event would not catch up to the other for a long time.
In today’s technological times, news travels instantly… so outright, bald face lies are less common… but politicians have become master word smiths, which seems to work just as well. The English language is wonderful, but complex, and the mere inclusion or exclusion of a small modifier can significantly change the actual meaning of a phrase while still sounding like something else altogether. And, of course, the general populace (we, the people) are not as good at this craft, so are at a disadvantage. Politicians intentionally mislead us every day. It seems they view it as part of their job description and work hard to do it well. But make no mistake, such verbal gyrations are no less a lie than one spoken plainly to your face.
I believe there was a time… and there are still a few of these types of politicians (too few, sad to say)… when honor and integrity meant something to most politicians, and liars and manipulators were in the minority. It is the opposite now, I believe. Our representatives should hold themselves AND EACH OTHER accountable for their actions.
While politicians have always tried to get their way, fundamental principles guided them… and they would not compromise those ideals just to gain a hollow victory. Disagreement and conflict abounded, to be sure, but respect for others and themselves prevailed. Again, the scene has switched.
Has honesty in politics died? Is “anything goes” the motto of our “win at all costs” political landscape?
If these are true, it is OUR fault. We, the people, who, like never before, enjoy access to exceptional news coverage of our representatives, can no longer look back and say we didn’t know about a politicians views or statements or actions. This information is readily available to all. We cannot claim ignorance as a defense.
It is every citizen’s responsibility to hold their government representatives accountable for their actions. If we are too lazy to pursue them, to watch their every move, they will be tempted by the power their office provides them. At some tipping point, a weak politician becomes focused on retaining their power rather than serving the people.
At the same time, citizens must also be honest. We are very much part of the political process and, if we are not true to our beliefs, the results will not be what we desire… or deserve. We cannot expect an honest representative if we, ourselves, will lie to others to get him elected. If we manipulate others to get “our candidate” elected, we deserve to be manipulated by that very candidate. Voters must be true to their beliefs and consistent in their actions or sacrifice any expectation of the ultimate outcome they seek.
If a politician is driven solely by power, the people will become subservient.
If a politician serves the people well, power is assured… by the people.
