Proximity Is No Substitute for Character and Behavior in Leadership

Grand Island: The recent passing of Jimmy Carter brought back memories of his visit to my hometown. He came after a devastating tornado outbreak in 1980 that left many in distress. His presence lifted spirits, showing that even a president can make a difference during tough times.

I wasn’t there to see him, though. Living in Los Angeles, I was more focused on my mom, who had survived the storm by hiding in her basement. It was a scary time for everyone, and Carter’s visit was a reminder of hope amidst chaos.

Presidents often show up in places hit by disasters, and it’s become a common practice. Just like Biden did in New Orleans after a tragic shooting. These visits can change how people feel about their leaders, but they often don’t lead to real connections.

With social media, we can follow presidents more closely than ever. But let’s be real—those online interactions can feel pretty shallow. It’s not the same as a face-to-face meeting, and it’s hard to say if they really influence our opinions or votes.

As a journalist, I’ve had some close encounters with presidents. I once chatted with George W. Bush at a baseball game. But most of my experiences were as a regular citizen. I remember seeing JFK drive by when I was a kid and Nixon visiting my college campus years later.

Presidential visits are still a big deal in Nebraska. I lived in California during Reagan’s presidency, and it felt like his visits didn’t make much of an impact. My vote didn’t change based on those appearances.

In the end, it’s not about how close you get to a president. It’s about their character and behavior that really matter. Carter may have left office with low approval ratings, but he’s remembered as a great leader. Most of us won’t have personal connections with presidents, but we can still understand them through their actions.