Regarding the denigration of Pete Hegseth ’03 and other conservative alumni just because they don’t conform to liberal Democrat views and inclination, I am frankly appalled by the “woke” leaning in PAW over the last few years.
It always amazes me to see how party politics can blind the most enlightened individuals. The fervor and intensity with which political affiliations influence judgment can be both bewildering and disheartening. The merits of individuals are overshadowed by partisan biases. Despite their credentials and accomplishments, these individuals are disqualified in the public forum even before their testimonies on alleged indiscretions are heard. They are criticized for not measuring up to some preconceived notion of perfection. This raises an important question: Who amongst us was always perfect?
A brief examination of our public servants from the past would suffice to prove this point. Consider how objectionable certain aspects of their lives were, yet they excelled in their appointed positions.
Abraham Lincoln, revered for his role in the emancipation of slaves, was known to use racial slurs and believe in white supremacy. Franklin Delano Roosevelt had extramarital affairs and maintained antisemitic and anti-Japanese views throughout his life but served honorably four consecutive terms as president. George Washington owned slaves. Theodore Roosevelt supported eugenics and held racist beliefs but played a crucial role in the progressive movement and conservation. John F. Kennedy was a prolific womanizer but is remembered for his inspiring vision and achievements.
These historical figures remind us that while their personal lives were far from exemplary, their contributions to the nation were significant and transformative. Judging them solely based on their indiscretions would be an injustice to their accomplishments.
Regarding the denigration of Pete Hegseth ’03 and other conservative alumni just because they don’t conform to liberal Democrat views and inclination, I am frankly appalled by the “woke” leaning in PAW over the last few years.
It always amazes me to see how party politics can blind the most enlightened individuals. The fervor and intensity with which political affiliations influence judgment can be both bewildering and disheartening. The merits of individuals are overshadowed by partisan biases. Despite their credentials and accomplishments, these individuals are disqualified in the public forum even before their testimonies on alleged indiscretions are heard. They are criticized for not measuring up to some preconceived notion of perfection. This raises an important question: Who amongst us was always perfect?
A brief examination of our public servants from the past would suffice to prove this point. Consider how objectionable certain aspects of their lives were, yet they excelled in their appointed positions.
Abraham Lincoln, revered for his role in the emancipation of slaves, was known to use racial slurs and believe in white supremacy. Franklin Delano Roosevelt had extramarital affairs and maintained antisemitic and anti-Japanese views throughout his life but served honorably four consecutive terms as president. George Washington owned slaves. Theodore Roosevelt supported eugenics and held racist beliefs but played a crucial role in the progressive movement and conservation. John F. Kennedy was a prolific womanizer but is remembered for his inspiring vision and achievements.
These historical figures remind us that while their personal lives were far from exemplary, their contributions to the nation were significant and transformative. Judging them solely based on their indiscretions would be an injustice to their accomplishments.