The Moral Tide of Leadership: Tariffs, Civic Duty, and California’s Political Crossroads
• • • • • • • • • • March 2026 • • • • • • • • • •
Published in the September 29, 1970 Washington Post, “Some citizens are so good that nothing a leader can do will make them better. Others are so incorrigible that nothing can be done to improve them. But the great bulk of the people go with the moral tide of the moment. The leader must help create that tide.” That anonymous reflection captures a timeless truth: leadership shapes public character.
Calvin Coolidge reinforced the idea at his 1925 inauguration: “It is much more important to kill a bad bill than to pass a good one.” Political restraint can be as powerful as bold action.
A Return to Political Gallantry
A letter to The Wall Street Journal earlier this year recalled a 2008 moment when Senator John McCain defended Barack Obama against inflammatory remarks at a campaign rally. McCain insisted Obama was “a decent person,” modeling a civility that is rarely seen in today’s political climate.
Tariffs and Economic Reality
President Trump’s tariffs continue to draw scrutiny. Federal Reserve economists have concluded that American businesses and families absorb nearly 90% of the costs, despite assurances that foreign nations would bear the burden. A recent Supreme Court ruling further complicated the issue, reinforcing that tariff authority rests with Congress.
Leadership, ultimately, is not only about authority—it is about understanding and shaping the moral tide of the moment.”
Crime Trends and Social Isolation
The FBI reported a 20% decline in murder rates nationally—the largest drop in its history—alongside increased arrests, gang disruptions, and major fentanyl seizures. At the same time, a Harvard Graduate School of Education survey identified technology as a primary contributor to loneliness, noting that time spent in face-to-face activities continues to decline.
California’s Congressional Contest
State Senator Scott Wiener’s recent shift in rhetoric regarding the Gaza War contrasts with his earlier positions. Meanwhile, Supervisor Connie Chan has drawn support for her opposition to closing the Great Highway and for her stance on local zoning issues. The race for Nancy Pelosi’s congressional seat reflects broader tensions within California’s Democratic Party.
Statewide Races and Political Momentum
California’s 2026 gubernatorial race features eight Democrats and two competitive Republicans. Early polling shows a fragmented Democratic field, with leading candidates clustered below 15% support. The volatility underscores the unpredictable nature of voter sentiment.
The Kennedy Center Debate
Debate continues over the future of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Established through legislation signed by President Eisenhower and renamed after President Kennedy in 1964, the federally funded institution remains a symbol of national cultural identity.
Civic Education and Intellectual Diversity
Public universities in Ohio have launched new centers dedicated to the study of the American founding, constitutional history, and democratic institutions. Similar initiatives are emerging in other states, reflecting concern about civic literacy among college students.
Following the People
Henry Gilmer’s “First Law for Political Success” states: “A political leader, if he would succeed, must regularly look over his shoulder to see if anyone is following.” His second law adds: “If no one is following, find out where the people want to go, and get out in front of them.”
Leadership, ultimately, is not only about authority—it is about understanding and shaping the moral tide of the moment.
And as for the chicken crossing the road? Perhaps it simply wished to escape the jokes told at its expense.
Quentin Kopp is a former San Francisco supervisor, state senator, SF Ethics Commission member, president of the California High Speed Rail Authority governing board and retired Superior Court judge.
March 2026
