President Trump has offered strong leadership since last week’s horrific school shooting in Parkland, Fla. The president’s listening session with victims of the shooting at the White House on Wednesday offers the best example. Rather than lecturing the audience and pledging to deliver on all their dreams (as the president sometimes has a habit of doing), Trump listened intently, as those assembled expressed their sorrow and hopes for change.
Most striking here was Trump’s true humility: as one father effectively shouted at the president, Trump sat quietly, respecting the man’s need and right to make his voice heard. It was a powerful if heart-wrenching moment.
But more than offering just listening leadership, Trump seems determined to use his power for a purpose and pass legislation. The president wants a ban on bump stocks, a rise in the eligibility age for semi-automatic rifle purchases to 21 years of age, a strengthening of the background check system and training for teachers willing to carry firearms in schools.
Now don’t get me wrong, I recognize that many conservatives are concerned about what these proposals might look like when they get to a bill. What mental health criteria, for example, will prohibit individuals from owning firearms? What due process remedies will those added to gun-ban lists have at their disposal? Nevertheless, Trump deserves credit for driving the conversation forward in a specific direction. He genuinely believes action is needed and so is pursuing action.
That’s leadership.
Ultimately, though, Trump should build on his experience over the past week. Americans want a president who has policy ideas as well as grit, and personality but also compassion. Too often the president reacts to perceived slights and gets buried in pointless Twitter wars.
There is a better way for Trump and this week, the template is in the mirror.
