Let Me Tell You a Story about Senator Mitch McConnell – Part 2

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Maybe it was because I knew some of the people and places Senator McConnell writes of in the early pages of his autobiography, The Long Game, or that to this day I am a political junkie, but I found the book of great interest, well written, and at moments, good-humored. I know I share his Republican view of the world, but you have to admit the description of Al Gore having the personality of a cardboard box is amusing. There is Professor Obama who lectured people rather than listen and good old Harry Reid (what can I say) who will bring a smile to your face even if you would rather not admit it.

It is a Henry Clay quote from the book that expresses the accumulative legislative experience of the Senate Majority leader that I seize upon, to sum up, the crux of the book.“All legislation, all government, all society, is founded upon the principle of mutual concession, politeness, comity, courtesy; upon these everything is based…let him who elevates himself above humanity, above its weaknesses, its infirmities, its wants, its necessities, say, if he pleases, I will never compromise; but let no one who is not above the frailties of our common nature disdain compromises.”

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The Senator goes on to explain that it requires deep understanding, an ability to listen, great patience, and a willingness to subordinate one’s own idea of perfection for the moment in the interest of achieving long-term goals later on. It means viewing the legislative process as the best means we have for making good decisions collectively. These few lines are taken from the book. It explains the measured continence of a leader who looks at the long game as a reasonable and right approach within the Senate body.

Mitch McConnell points out that there are two kinds of politicians. Those who wish to make a point and those who wish to make a difference. I have no doubt that when it comes time to reckon the successful accomplishments of Senator McConnell, his mentor, John Sherman Cooper, will whisper in his ear, “A job well done, son.”  My whisper is less eloquent but nonetheless heartfelt…..”As Kermit, the frog says, ‘It isn’t easy being green.’ and you have worn that burden well!”

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