By James J. Devine
Today, February 12, 2025, marks the 216th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, a man whose legacy is etched in the annals of history as a champion of equality, unity, and moral leadership.
As we honor Lincoln’s memory, we cannot help but contrast his towering legacy with the current occupant of the White House, Donald Trump, a man whose presidency has been marred by criminal convictions, adjudicated fraud, and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
Indeed, it seems as if Trump is dedicated to making government of the people, by the people, for the people, perish from the earth.
Lincoln: A Beacon of Moral Leadership
Abraham Lincoln’s presidency was defined by his unwavering commitment to preserving the Union and abolishing slavery.
A conciliatory approach, self-discipline, and a deep moral conviction marked his leadership during the Civil War.
Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation and the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment stand as testaments to his dedication to equality and human dignity.
He believed in the principles of the Declaration of Independence, famously stating, “As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy” .
Lincoln’s ability to inspire and unite a fractured nation was unparalleled. He communicated directly with the public through thoughtful speeches and letters, appealing to the “better angels of our nature”.
His transformational leadership style earned him the trust and respect as one of the nation’s greatest leaders.
Trump: A Presidency of Chaos and Corruption
In stark contrast, Donald Trump’s presidency has been characterized by divisiveness, self-interest, and a flagrant violation of constitutional norms.
Trump, a convicted criminal as well as an adjudicated fraudster and rapist, has repeatedly broken laws and undermined democratic institutions.
His attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riot, were not only unconstitutional but also a direct assault on the very fabric of American democracy.
Trump’s leadership style is transactional, driven by personal loyalty and a desire for adoration rather than ethical principles.
His rhetoric has often appealed to fear and bigotry, stigmatizing groups based on race, religion, and ethnicity. From his Muslim travel ban to his inflammatory remarks about immigrants, Trump’s policies have been a far cry from Lincoln’s inclusive vision.
The executive orders issued during the first three weeks of his second term are an affront to Congress, frequently violating the Constitution or duly enacted laws and vastly exceeding his legitimate authority.
Having claimed victory with less than a majority, Trump is overreaching in his extreme right-wing attack on government institutions and the social order with which most Americans have become comfortable.
A Couple of Constitutional Crises
While Lincoln expanded federal authority to address national crises, Trump has abused executive power for personal gain. His executive orders, such as the controversial travel ban and mass deportation plans, have been widely criticized for their divisive and unconstitutional nature.
Unlike Honest Abe, who sought to unite the nation, Trump has deepened political polarization, using his platform to unjustly attack opponents and intentionally spread misinformation.
Trump’s legal troubles further highlight the stark contrast between the two leaders.
While Lincoln faced criticism for overreaching on civil liberties during the Civil War, his actions were nobly aimed at preserving the Union.
Trump, on the other hand, was indicted on charges of conspiracy, obstruction, and fraud, with prosecutors arguing that his actions were motivated by personal ambition rather than national interest.
As we reflect on Lincoln’s birthday, we are reminded of the values that truly make America great: equality, justice, and unity. Lincoln’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder that leadership is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good.
Trump’s presidency, however, stands as a cautionary tale. His actions have eroded public trust in democratic institutions, undermined the rule of law, and deepened societal divisions.
While Lincoln sought to heal a fractured nation, Trump has exploited its divisions for personal and political gain.
Today, as we honor Abraham Lincoln, let us recommit ourselves to the principles he championed: equality, justice, and unity.
Let today’s Americans reject the lawlessness and divisiveness of the current administration and strive to uphold the ideals that Lincoln so passionately defended:
The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
The contrast between these two leaders could not be more stark—one a unifier, the other a divider; one a defender of democracy, the other its greatest threat.
The choice before us is clear: to follow the path of Lincoln or to continue down the dangerous road paved by Trump.
The future of our nation depends on the capacity of our citizens being able to make the right decision rather than being deluded by false claims and empty promises.
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