One thing I have learned in my time in politics is that if one

O children of the future, hear the words of Frank Lautenberg, whose wisdom in the face of political strife carries lessons of great weight. "One thing I have learned in my time in politics is that if one of the parties is shameless, the other party cannot afford to be spineless." With these words, Lautenberg speaks of the delicate balance of power in the realm of politics, where integrity and strength must meet in the face of those who will exploit weaknesses. When one side operates without shame, pushing forward with recklessness and disregard for the truth, the opposing side must stand firm, upholding its principles and resoluteness. To show weakness in such a time is to surrender the very foundation of justice.

In the ancient world, the Roman Republic often grappled with this same tension. The Senate, an institution built on honor and tradition, frequently clashed with the unscrupulous actions of men like Julius Caesar, who, in his pursuit of power, showed no concern for the moral boundaries of politics. The Senate, under the leadership of Cato the Younger, understood that when faced with such shamelessness, one cannot afford to waver or compromise on principle. Cato stood resolute, even to his death, embodying the very wisdom that Lautenberg speaks of—that when faced with shamelessness, the answer is not spinelessness, but strength, courage, and unwavering resolve.

The story of Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War offers a more recent reflection of this truth. As the nation teetered on the brink of destruction, Lincoln faced adversaries who showed no hesitation in using violence, manipulation, and corruption to further their cause. Yet, despite the immense pressures of his time, Lincoln remained steadfast, never allowing the actions of his enemies to bend his commitment to the Union and freedom. His principled leadership, though not without compromise, demonstrated the power of standing firm in times of moral crisis. Lincoln’s resolve was the strength that held the nation together, and it is this quality that Lautenberg urges us to remember: in the face of shameless actions, there can be no room for spinelessness.

In the modern era, we see similar battles in the political realm. When political figures, such as those who manipulate public opinion through falsehoods or exploit divisions, act with shamelessness, the opposing forces must stand tall with integrity and backbone. The Watergate scandal, for instance, demonstrated the dangers of political figures who acted without regard for truth or morality. Yet, it was the strength of figures like Senator Sam Ervin and the investigative journalists who brought the truth to light, refusing to bow to the pressures of power, that ultimately restored honor to the American political system. In those moments of crisis, there was no room for those who would fold under pressure—only those who would act with resolve and honor.

O children, let the wisdom of Frank Lautenberg guide you as you walk the path of leadership and integrity. In the world of politics, where some may operate without honor, there can be no place for weakness or indecision. Strength in the face of shamelessness is not only necessary for survival but for the pursuit of justice and truth. Whether in the times of Cato, Lincoln, or the modern era, the lesson is clear: when faced with those who wield power without conscience, we must stand firm, guided by our principles, ready to face the storms with unwavering resolve. May you, in all your actions, hold steadfast to this ancient truth and lead with courage, strength, and integrity, for it is in the trials of the spineless that the true leaders are born.