Reflecting on Leadership: From Washington to Trump

Recently, I found myself intrigued by George Washington’s dentures at Mount Vernon. Contrary to popular belief, they were not wooden but made from human, horse, and cow teeth. These dentures often caused him discomfort, yet Washington rarely complained. He remains a symbol of quiet resilience, contrasting starkly with today’s leaders.

Ron Chernow, a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer of George Washington, shared insights on the differences between Washington and Donald Trump. Chernow describes Washington as discreet, courteous, and reserved. He avoided showiness and self-promotion, viewing these traits as unsuitable for public servants. In contrast, Trump frequently engages in self-promotion, often boasting about his achievements.

This comparison highlights the stark differences in leadership styles. Washington, who could have been king, chose humility and service. Meanwhile, Trump often exhibits a more boastful leadership style. For instance, during a presidential memorandum signing, Trump stated, “We rule by common sense, to a large extent,” mistakenly using “rule” instead of “govern.”

Trump’s statement about his Independence Day speech, “I’m going to make a really long speech, just to show that I can do anything,” further illustrates his approach to leadership, emphasizing personal ability over collective governance.