Nunes fails Lincoln’s first test of power

President Abraham Lincoln wrote, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” My congressional representative, Devin Nunes, has had his character tested in recent weeks. Sadly, his response to the power vested in him as chair of the House Intelligence Committee has revealed serious character flaws.

I believe the kind words of support from his friends, neighbors, and fellow farmers, and that he’s a family man with strong values who treats those who rely on him with respect and care. None of which excuses his ongoing bizarre behavior. He appears to be melting in the spotlight of our national crisis of Russian interference.

With his mishandling of classified materials in a clumsy, transparent attempt to redirect public attention, Nunes has demonstrated a lack of integrity and a willingness to ignore the oath he swore to “support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”

Everyone in Congress shares this solemn duty. Our experiment in democracy relies entirely on the checks and balances enshrined in the Constitution. However, Nunes’ first loyalty is clearly to President Trump rather than our country. He has failed Lincoln’s test of power.

This story was originally published April 6, 2017 at 2:13 PM with the headline "Nunes fails Lincoln’s first test of power."