The old saying “The fish rots from the head down” is usually meant as a metaphor for corruption and has become an increasingly appropriate definition given the number of kleptocrats who keep popping up in the Great Swamp surrounding this presidency. But it can equally be an apt phrase to describe cousin words “incompetence,” “nepotism” and, yes, “stupidity.”
Incompetence? Take the “zero-tolerance” immigration policy, the planned separation of families at the U.S.-Mexico border, concocted apparently with no consideration of long-term unintended consequences.
Nepotism? The running of family corporate interests out of the White House annex, Trump Tower.
Stupidity? One need go no further than the neck to list the historical ignorance of statements from this president. (Examples: “Most people don’t even know [Lincoln] was a Republican” and “I know more about ISIS than the generals do, believe me.”)
Maybe it is high-time the proverbial fish is wrapped in newspaper and consigned to the garbage pail.
JIM HOHMAN
Shadyside
