Applying JFK's four-part test to 2022 midterm candidates
I’ve been thinking about John F. Kennedy. People often ask what they can do to make a difference in this crucial moment of danger and opportunity.
I’d like to ask that you listen to this speech from President-elect Kennedy to a Joint Convention of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, The State House, on January 9, 1961. It is often referred to as the “City on a Hill” speech:
Now, I would ask that you apply the four-part test that the President Elect references against four choices in major elections across America. How would each of the candidates measure up in the following races?
1. Ohio: Tim Ryan vs. JD Vance
2. Utah: Evan McMullin vs. Senator Mike Lee
3. Florida: Val Demings vs. Senator Marco Rubio
4. Georgia: Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock vs. Herschel Walker
John Kennedy was 43 years old when he gave this speech. It is eight minutes long and it is exquisite and inspiring.
JFK talks about setting forth on a journey. He talks about responsibility and duty. He talks about gratitude and a connection that exists and binds all Americans through the generations. He talks about Massachusetts and the elemental role that cradle of American liberty has played in kindling the birth and advancement of American freedom. He talks about his grandparents and his hopes for his yet-born grandchildren. He talks about opportunity and danger.
Listen to his words as he talks about America being at the edge of a “perilous frontier.” He summons the foundations of our national greatness.
JFK quotes Governor John Winthrop aboard flagship Arabella as a new world is imagined and a government is created.
“We shall be as a city upon a hill. The eyes of all people are upon us.”
He applies a test for service.
JFK calls for leaders to be measured as men (and women) of (i) courage, (ii) judgement, (iii) integrity and (iv) dedication.
He says to those to whom much is given, much is expected and owed.
Listen to his words.
Hear them.
Let them stir within you a dedication to this country at a moment of new danger. John F. Kennedy saw the future in 1961 and understood his moment with perfect clarity.
He would have understood this one as well. The test has not changed.
My first thought was f’n Regan co-opted his speech and second thought was how long until Magots ban all history if they win?
I’ve written 120 letters to voters in AZ. PA. OH. FL. w/ vote forward begging them to vote for democracy.
I’ve donated and donated.
I’ve knocked on doors for my congressman.
If there is more to do -sign me up.
On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the highest for the qualities of Courage, Judgement, Integrity and Dedication: Tim Ryan = 10; Val Demings = 10; JD Vance = zero, Hershel Walker = minus 10, etc.
American citizens are we up to the task of saving our Democracy?! "For of those to whom much is given, much is required." Vote like your life depends on it!