Have you no sense of decency, sir”

In 1954 these words were uttered by the attorney, Joseph Welch, to Senator Joe McCarthy during the government hearings about communist infiltration in government, the military and academia.

It marked the beginning of the end of the McCarthy hearings and the end of the McCarthy saga. In 1954 these words carried some weight with the public at large.

Was Joe McCarthy a criminal?  No.  He was a political creature using the power of his office to lie and deceive not only his constituents but people across the U.S.A. and in every walk of life.  He was a liar and a disgraced politician.

During the last 70 years, the American people have been exposed to so much deceit, hyperbole, and lying at every level of government, academia, financial markets, and congressional vetting that the “sense of decency” has lost its significance and receives a shrug in judgment.  “Nothing anyone can do about it.”

For all the young parents who are very challenged in raising their children to be truthful and respectful and forthright in coping with all the events of their young daily lives this disregard for “decency” is sad and haunting.

For all the older parents who are trying to help their children cope with finding successful career opportunities without lying and cheating in the process is also very challenging and difficult.

If George Santos goes to Congress as a representative of our congressional district we are confirming once again that lying, deceit and hyperbole are now fully acceptable and “anything goes” as a means to an end.

George is probably a “nice” guy struggling to find a career path. So what if he lied?!  Somehow he also even found the funding to finance his campaign.  To whom is he indebted?

George, please do us, your constituents, a favor and resign.  The thought that you represent me is abhorrent.

Alan Altman

Great Neck