Column: A permanent stain on the White House
One of the biggest attractions in Washington, D.C. is the famous White House tour, but I didn’t go while I was visiting. I won’t be going until we have a president who represents the ethical, democratic ideals that the office is known for.
The words and actions of the president of the United States carry more weight than the average person. They receive international coverage and are traditionally the public representative of the country.
So, when Donald Trump shamelessly imitates a disabled person, makes sexist remarks against women and uses racist stereotypes to describe immigrants or black and Jewish Americans, our entire country is defined by it.
When he abuses his power by withholding congressional funds from a foreign ally in order to push his personal political agenda, he is representing us poorly.
Trump is currently being investigated by the House of Representatives, who will consider impeachment after the inquiry is complete. The impeachable crimes of bribery, witness intimidation, obstruction of justice and ethics violations are being considered.
So many supporters of Trump have claimed that while he is not a kind person, or as classy as other presidents have been, his ends justify his means. Some say “he just speaks his mind” or that “he says what everyone is thinking.”
There is an example of a golden rule in every religion and culture, but somehow millions of Americans believe that the U.S. president is above that ideal. That is one of the first ethical lessons that American children are taught.
Shouldn’t we hold our elected officials to a higher standard than what we expect of our children?
Whether Trump is just impeached, or whether he is also removed, his repugnant remarks and unethical behavior have stained the White House for years to come.
This column is written with the opinions of one editor and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Pacer Times.
