David Harsanyi: Obama Is in no position to lecture us about decency

Key Takeaways:

• Barack Obama critiqued conservative politics during a “No Lie” podcast interview.
• He described conservative tactics as “mean, angry, exclusive, us/them, divisive.”
• Obama contrasted this approach with his belief that liberals aim to “come together.”
• David Harsanyi challenges Obama’s moral authority to lecture on decency.
• The exchange highlights a broader dialogue on the meaning of decency in American politics.

Obama’s Recent Remarks

In a recent appearance on the “No Lie” podcast hosted by Brian Tyler Cohen, former President Barack Obama offered a stark assessment of conservative politics. He characterized conservatives as employing “mean, angry, exclusive, us/them, divisive” tactics. According to Obama, the right has made this style “their home court,” forming the foundation of their political identity.

A Contrast of Approaches

Obama went further by contrasting these practices with what he views as the liberal goal of unifying the country. He suggested that those aligned with his views strive for “coming together,” a more inclusive approach that stands in opposition to the conservative ethos he described.

Harsanyi’s Critique

David Harsanyi, in his opinion column, disputes Obama’s moral authority to lecture other political groups on decency. Although the column’s full text is not publicly available, the title—“Obama Is in no position to lecture us about decency”—reflects Harsanyi’s belief that the former president falls short of being a credible arbiter on unified values.

Debating Decency

The debate over decency in politics underscores a deeper ideological divide within the country. Obama’s remarks, along with Harsanyi’s rebuttal, have opened the door to questions about how strongly each political side upholds—or undermines—the notion of bringing the nation closer together. As this disagreement highlights, the conversation on decency remains central to the broader discourse on American values and governance.