The Bolduc Brief: National Security – The Failure of Leadership, The Trump Administration, Congress and the Government Shutdown

The government shutdown marks a definitive failure in leadership and responsibility towards American citizens. As millions of Americans faced the repercussions of a paralyzed government, it is evident that the actions and inactions of elected officials have direct consequences on the lives of the people they vowed to protect. As essential programs were thrust into chaos and uncertainty, the leadership exhibited during this crisis serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities of those in power.

The effects of the government shutdown are not abstract or theoretical; they manifest in the daily struggles of everyday Americans. Economic stability is fractured, medical services are compromised, and the most basic necessities, such as food, have been endangered for countless families across the country. The longer the shutdown persists, the more dire the situation becomes. Vulnerable populations, in particular, bear the brunt of this failure—a failure not merely of policy, but of empathy and understanding. In times of crisis, leaders are expected to uphold the principles of care and accountability, ensuring the well-being of those they serve, not jeopardizing it.

In the face of this governmental paralysis, some states took commendable steps to support their residents by providing full compensation through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This decision indicated a recognition of the hardship experienced by so many during the shutdown, showing an admirable commitment to the welfare of citizens. Conversely, the Trump administration’s admonition to these states to cease their support reflects a shocking dismissal of the immediate needs of Americans. It is easy for those within the administration, insulated by their positions, to overlook the struggles of ordinary citizens who are fighting to procure basic necessities for their families. A responsible leader should not only be aware of such difficulties but should actively seek to alleviate them, rather than exacerbate the crisis (https://apple.news/A7QVCAGR3Qca0A8QwrMGD8Q).

Reflecting on my own experience in military leadership, I find it imperative to provide for those under one’s charge. In the military, the ethos is clear: leaders must ensure that their personnel have what they need to succeed, even if it requires ingenuity and resourcefulness to fulfill those needs. If higher authorities fall short, a leader must find alternative solutions so that their people do not suffer. This lesson in leadership stands in stark contrast to the actions of the Trump administration during the shutdown. By instructing states to withdraw support for vital programs like SNAP, it seems the administration has forgotten about the 10th Amendment and that true leadership entails serving the needs of the people, not obstructing their access to essential resources.

The directive to halt state compensation for SNAP not only illustrates a gross oversight but also echoes a broader trend of decision-making that has detrimentally impacted countless Americans. From healthcare policies to economic assistance, use of military force, and extreme immigration policies the administration’s pattern of choices often prioritizes political agendas over the urgent needs of the populace. This dissonance between governance and the welfare of citizens is a hallmark of failed leadership.

As we reflect on the consequences of the government shutdown, it is glaringly evident that elected officials must prioritize the needs of their constituents. Leadership is not a privilege; it is a duty, one that necessitates empathy, accountability, and a commitment to the common good. The failures of the Trump administration and Congress during the shutdown serve as a crucial learning opportunity for future leaders. It is imperative that they seek to uplift and support the American people, especially during times of crisis when the impact of their decisions resounds throughout the nation. Only through a genuine dedication to service can leaders reclaim the trust of the citizens who rely on them.

 

Donald C. Bolduc