It used to be that we gave politicians beaucoup points for this quality called "strength of character." It was measured partly in terms of war record, partly interms of this intangible quality called "leadership."
But there was always this essential element - character means you own up to your faults. You admit your personal failings and confess when you made a mistake. You took the heat for decisions made by others under you, whether or not you were directly responsible for them, and when they resigned, you sang their praises. And you didn't keep the credit for yourself - you were quick to pass it along to those out of the limelight.
And all of this made you look better.
This is what I teach my children it means to be a Man or Woman. This is the essence of integrity.
How I wish there were public officials that I could point to as contemporary examples. All we have are examples of the opposite - how important it is to shift blame, to keep the credit for oneself, and above all, NEVER PUBLICLY ADMIT YOUR MISTAKES.
Perhaps I'm deluding myself that politicians could ever truly show leadership.