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I wasn't tempted to vote for Bush, but I understand why people did: because he obviously had integrity. It was a terrible kind of integrity, but he does what he says and he means what he says. And what he says is terrible and what he does is terrible, but he's consistent. So I think a lot of people in Wyoming who care so much about integrity that there willing to choose somebody that has a monstrous willingness to do any damn thing as long as he's up front about it - but that's not really quite enough for me. I mean I look forward to the day when I can be Republican again. I'm an Alan Simpson Republican.

John Perry Barlow#13

PoliticsEthicsConsistencyIntegrityLeadership

About this quote

What does it mean?
Barlow acknowledges Bush’s consistency and integrity, despite finding his policies terrible, and hopes to return to a more traditional Republican stance.
In plain terms
He respects honesty even when he disagrees with the actions.
What can you take from it?
Consistency can be a valuable trait, but align it with ethical outcomes.

Where it applies

  • evaluating leaders
  • personal political identity

Putting it to work

  • value honesty in candidates
  • consider both means and ends

Questions to consider

  • Is consistency enough for good leadership?
  • How do you balance integrity with policy impact?

Another view

Integrity without moral substance may still lead to harmful policies.

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