The Current Nightmare Is Of Fairly Modern Origin

An excellent reflection on Fred Thompson, who refused to participate in the modern pathological campaign style. Some interesting historical background is also highlighted: until fairly recent times the very idea that a man running for President should go all over the country talking about himself and begging for votes and money was seen as utterly degrading and undignified. The piece begins with one of the few sensible things Greenspan has ever said:

In his recent memoir, Alan Greenspan says he's been pushing a constitutional amendment of his own devising. It reads: "Anyone willing to do what is required to become president of the United States is thereby barred from taking that office." If the Greenspan amendment is ever enacted, it will at last clear the field for Fred Thompson, who might then become president. But not until then.