An Interview With George Washington
I am so pleased to have as my guest today George Washington. Yes, thee George Washington, our founding president. He is not with me in person, of course, but thanks to ChatGPT which provided intermediary services, his replies are brought to us over the span of ages.
Reflecting on Donald Trump’s Impact
Me:
Welcome, President Washington. We are so honored to have you with us today. The legacy of democracy you and your fellow founders gifted to the world has endured for nearly 250 years. Now, as often in the past, your creation of constitutional government is being tested. And that’s the topic I will focus on in the brief time we have today. I would like to start by asking your opinion of our current president’s performance as chief executive.
GW:
Permit me, though long removed from this earthly stage, to offer reflection upon the conduct of Mr. Donald J. Trump. I speak not in wrath nor favor, but as one who, in former days, was entrusted with the welfare of this young republic. My heart, ever bound to the cause of liberty and union, is stirred to speak when I perceive the Constitution strained, and the spirit of unity imperiled.
Mr. Trump did awaken among the people a passion long dormant—men and women who felt themselves forgotten by the engines of government. Such arousal of the public voice is no small matter, and when tempered by virtue, may yield fruit for the common good.
Yet, let us not mistake fervor for wisdom, nor tumult for statesmanship. Too oft did I observe in him a fostering of faction—a devotion not to the whole nation, but to a particular party, and more still, to his own person. Such conduct nourishes the spirit of division, which I did in my day solemnly warn against, as the bane of republican government.
On Constitutional Boundaries and Power
Me:
President Trump’s early days in office have seen significant change. Isn’t that what voters sought when they elected him?
GW:
The preservation of our liberties depends on the firm restraint of power. When a President seeks to diminish the judgments of the courts, to bend the legislature to his singular purpose, or to call into question the very outcome of a lawful election—he trespasses upon sacred ground. The Constitution is not a servant of ambition; it is the master of all who govern under its charge.
Public Morality and Presidential Integrity
Me:
Aside from his constitutional duties, questions have been raised about his use of the office of president to further his own wealth and interests. Your views?
GW:
As for the moral character of our public servants—let us speak plainly. A people cannot long remain free if they lose their reverence for truth, for decency, and for the responsibilities of citizenship. The office of President demands not perfection, but dignity, restraint, and a love of country greater than a love of self.
Me:
Do you find any positive attributes in his performance as president so far?
GW:
While I acknowledge the energy and resolve shown by Mr. Trump in some quarters, I must, in fidelity to the Union, say this: many of his actions and words fall short of the noble standard required for the stewardship of a free and virtuous people.
Me:
Given the current state of affairs, do you have a message you would like to leave with the American people?
GW:
May we, as one nation, seek not vengeance, but wisdom. Let us renew our fidelity to the Constitution, and remember always that the destiny of America rests not in the hands of one man, but in the character and vigilance of its citizens.
Me:
We honor your legacy and respect your wise counsel, President Washington. Thank you.
Comments? Criticism? Contact Joe Rothstein at jrothstein@rothstein.net
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