In 1788, discussing the future constitution of the United States, James Madison posed this question. Arguing that legislators would neither “do every mischief that they possibly can” nor express “the most exalted integrity,” he supported “the great republican principle that the people will have virtue and intelligence to select men of virtue and wisdom.” (“Republican” then was used as a contrast to monarchy.)

If there is no virtue among us, Madison continued, “then no form of government can render us secure.” No checks and balances, no separate branches, no limits on presidential power can guarantee “liberty and happiness.”

This principle has been on my mind since Trump’s election to the presidency in 2016. From the time he made fun of a disabled reporter during the campaign, I thought “How can anyone vote for him?” But that was just the start of the degradation of public life, ordinary human decency, and yes, virtue, that has snowballed since his election.

In this regard, a good friend of mine has been learning how to canvas effectively through a group called Changing The Conversation Together. It does not involve using reason, but rather in appealing to emotions. If the canvasser can establish an emotional connection, then she can ask, “Do you think Trump’s actions are decent?” Most people will say “No,” and then the connection has been made

So what is necessary now is to re-establish decency and virtue among us. “If there be sufficient virtue and intelligence in the community,” Madison continued, “ It will be exercised in the selection of” our representatives. Without it, no government can be a force for good. This principle gives us a place to begin to reform our nation.