Democrat, Republican, and independent voters (timely) often fall into the same flawed pattern when judging the nation's condition. Despite the hope that Americans are informed and passionate, too many approach civic life with a single question: "What's in it for me?"

John F. Kennedy's 1961 inaugural challenge remains one of the most enduring calls to national character: "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

His words confront the self-focused mindset that still shapes much of our political thinking.

Most of us stand "too close to the ground" to see the broader landscape of what is happening across the country. When we evaluate America only through the lens of personal benefit, we use a shallow measure of national health.

A stronger, wiser approach is to look for the preservation of principles rather than the fulfillment of individual wish lists. When foundational principles are honored, the nation functions as the founders intended: an ongoing 250-year experiment in individual liberty.

America is at its best when guided by enduring principles such as equal opportunity, freedom of speech, the rule of law, individual liberty, national sovereignty, merit, freedom of religion, and representative government. When these principles are reflected in our votes, we become a healthier society. "What's in it for me?" must give way to, "What strengthens the country?"

A nation grounded in principle lifts all its people. As with a boat at sea, every passenger is safer when the vessel itself is sound.

Yet political polls repeatedly reveal how many citizens--across race, age, gender, and background--still vote from a self-interested posture. That mindset leads to rudderless decline and national decay. A country cannot survive if its citizens demand benefits rather than uphold sound principles.

We should refuse to support politicians who appeal to our personal wish lists in exchange for votes. As Mick Jagger famously sang, "You can't always get what you want. But if you try some time, you just might find, you get what you need."

What the nation needs is not "politics as usual," but principled leadership. Two and a half centuries of American history call us to support men and women of character--leaders who love this country enough to defend timeless truths even when doing so may not get more votes. Such leaders help form better citizens, stronger communities, and a nation worthy of its heritage.

Principles are foundational truths and standards that do not change or lose their authority, regardless of time, place, or circumstance.

Art Noyes lives in El Dorado.

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