I learned this lesson early on as I became acclimated to the world of business. Talk about your product, your company, all the plusses you can think of, but do not spend time making derogatory comments regarding your rival(s). Decision makers want to hear from “you” and do not wish to waste their time listening to often incorrect or exaggerated stories regarding competitors.

Then there is the “business” of politics, which turns the preceding principle on its head as political operatives spend much of their waking hours trying to dig up dirt on their opponents. Half-truths, innuendo and the out of context are utilized to create images which come flashing across our television screens ad nauseam. And the money needed to perform this nefarious service is seemingly unending. Just turn on the spigot.

Sadly, negativity has been shown to work. It has long been part of the political landscape. Throw enough mud at the wall and some will stick. So the game goes on because candidates must fight fire with fire even if it means ignoring the truth.

It all seems so demeaning and embarrassing. Grown men and women setting the bar very low while attempting to convince a cynical electorate they are worthy of our trust. Trivial role models.

In summary: “The process sucks!”

If I were invited to attend a campaign debate and allowed to ask a single question I’d excuse one candidate and then turn to the other and ask:

“Would you please state your understanding of the term “political integrity?”

Then I would call the other candidate back in and ask the same question.

Soon the mid-term election will be behind us and we can all look forward to the Presidential campaign. Oh joy!