The swift action by House Republicans to reverse their decision to gut the Office of Congressional Ethics (“House Republicans back off gutting ethics watchdog after backlash from Trump,” Jan. 3) in a matter of 24 hours reminds one of the story told by Hannibal’s lieutenant Maharbal after he had claimed victory in a battle but failed to proceed to take Rome.
Maharbal said: “To you, O Hannibal, they have given the genius which enables you to win the victory, but they have withheld from you the judgment by which it might be fully utilized.”
The Republicans demonstrated the ability to win the election but already give ample evidence that they are incapable of wielding their acquired power in a constructive manner for the citizens. They clearly do not represent the majority of voters.
Robert Lyons
Kennebunkport
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