If you are still undecided about who you will vote for on November 5, here’s something to consider. Which candidates for office have the best character to lead? Each of us has different views on key issues such as jobs, the economy, women’s right to choose, January 6th, immigration, and others. These all matter, but I think the most important thing at this moment in our history – when we seem to struggle so much to work together despite our differences - is the character of the men and women we elect to public office.

Some years ago, I participated in Leadership Maine, a 9-month program that aims to develop Maine’s future leaders from all sectors and regions of the state. Among our teachers was now Senator Angus King.

Together, we studied the attributes of great leaders and came up with the following essential qualities:

Trustworthiness

Honesty and integrity

Strong moral and ethical base Smart, effective, competent and pragmatic

Strength and resiliency

Listens to and respects people, even if they disagree

Puts others first, not their own ambition

Exercises self-discipline and is willing to be accountable

As you head to the polls, I hope you will join me in voting for candidates who embody these qualities and will help restore to our politics a spirit of civic-mindedness and working together. Then VOTE!

Roy Hitchings lives in Camden