The 2024 political conventions are here. Given our country’s dilemma, let me ask: What should you look for in a candidate if you were a delegate to a national convention? I’ve been pondering this question from a non-political viewpoint. I’m thinking strictly about the office as outlined in Article II of the Constitution.
Some Questions to Ask When Choosing a President
I ask myself, “Who can fulfill the responsibilities outlined in Article II? Who will have the nuclear codes? Which candidate is concerned about the American people more than the power of the presidency? Who will be an effective Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces?” The lure of presidential power is too big to ignore, so we have to ask, what about We the People? Who will lead us? Who will be focused on the Constitution and faithfully administering the laws Congress passes?” We must ask these objective questions, realizing there is no perfect candidate.
However, Americans tend to “pick sides,” be on “a team,” or abdicate their responsibilities to someone else. I’m asking you to consider our current situation, the conventions, and the future of your town, city, and state. Taking time to think things through rather than emotionally responding or abdicating altogether is the process we use as we exercise eternal vigilance over our country.
Looking Beyond Politics: What Criteria Would You Use?
If you were a delegate, what objective questions about the office of the president would you want to be considered as we head into convention season?
Article 2, Section 1, Clause 8 describes the oath taken before taking office in the government. Use this as one of your guides as you observe the conventions:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
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