Why America Needs Mitt

By David M. McEntire

Our country needs Mitt.

American citizens can no longer request character in their political leaders—they demand it. This entry discusses in general terms why Mitt Romney's character is the primary reason he will win the 2008 presidential election.

Mitt Romney has not entered the 2008 presidential race for self-seeking reasons. He has entered the race to act on his love of country, to ensure prosperity of American citizens, and to esteem safety for America's children and grandchildren (Glen and Helen Show).

Dorman B. Eaton wrote in his classic article of public administration:
“Thoughtful citizens whose hearts are warmed by a true love of their country, who are humiliated as they see that country failing to rise to its true identity before the world, who comprehend that, under better methods, worth and ability of a higher order could be made to elevate politics and official life—will be drawn to the subject by all the strength of interest, patriotic duty, and national pride. They feel that the United States stand before the world as the original and the noblest embodiment of the republican ideal in government” (New York: Harper & Brothers, 1880).

America needs a well-rounded president. Romney describes himself as a “thinking conservative (G&H). His character is augmented by an exceptional education. Competitive experience in private business has prepared him to be an effective decision maker in the Whitehouse. Additionally, his history as governor of Massachusetts has confirmed his abilities to make meaningful progress while fostering teamwork in the midst partisan dynamics.

America demands a well-rounded president to not merely meet challenges, but to come running to them. Mitt Romney's character drives him to be a man of action. He will rise to new frotiers of national security, engender economical prosperity and advocate family values. Romeny is a man of faith (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).

Mormons stand for strong families and embrace modern divine revelation. Romney agrees America needs a faithful leader (brand of religion is not as important) to uphold family values (G&H). These new frontiers beckon Mitt Romney's new leadership. “Year by year, the prosperity and morality of every enlightened people become, in a still greater degree, dependent upon the character and capacity of those who fill their places of public trust” (Eaton).

Integrity is the foundation of character. Mitt Romney readily admits he has made administrative mistakes in the past. He also realizes there is wisdom in learning from mistakes. Additional wisdom comes from age (G&H). Romney, during his governorship, fostered competitive decision-making by surrounding himself with individuals having diverse opinions. "If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary” (Federalist Paper LI, James Madison). As Romney strides toward the Whitehouse, Americans can have confidence his charater will demonstrate integrity making sound decisions.

President Woodrow Wilson may very well have been referring to Mitt Romney when he described public duty as giving life to the federal government. He says, “the task is great and important enough to attract the best minds” (Political Science Quarterly 2; June 1887). Mitt Romney not only is among the best minds of our time, but his character meets America's demand for new leadership.