Director, Commonwealth Policy Center

Today is President's Day and at a time when confidence in political leadership may be at an all-time low, it's good to celebrate the courage and conviction of leaders who've demonstrated statesmanship. Abraham Lincoln our 16th president held the Union together and was the driving force to end slavery. George Washington, our first president and the father of our country was "first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen." Washington was so revered that some wanted to make him a king, but he refused. His strength of character resisted the temptation and he understood that America had a higher purpose than one person's political ambitions. His example of personal virtue, humility and courage make him one of our greatest leaders. This is the kind of leadership worth celebrating, and we need more of it today.