Thread by @cmclymer

It's probably appropriate that tonight especially illustrates the profound feeling of loss in this country across the political spectrum: that of an adult leading our nation. We seem to be a country without leadership, and that's most glaring on days of immense feeling. (thread)

Tonight, the Obamas released an official statement from his personal office on the death of Sen. John McCain. As did the Clintons. As will the Bushes. And Carter. These statements have been carefully considered, worded, and prepped ahead of time.

And Trump? A 21-word tweet.

Sarah Sanders informed White House reporters that this tweet by Trump is the official statement.

The pettiness and childishness of this "president" and the White House he leads underscores the rudderless nature of our government. We are without a leader.

Trump + Pence are so craven and cynical and hateful that they can't even put their bullshit on hold for a few hours out of self-preservation. Regardless of your feelings on Sen. McCain, it is not only decent, not only responsible, but an easy slam dunk to do a healing statement.

But what makes so much worse is that not only is it the right thing to do as a human being and a leader, but it's also the SMART thing to do. It's what a good politician does. It's what a serious statesman does.

This so-called "president", in the throes of multiple federal investigations and imminent losses in November and gutter approval ratings, can't even take one goddamn evening to cynically score a few political points by appealing to the better angels of our nature.

For me, this isn't about McCain. It's about presidential leadership. It's about having someone in the Oval Office savvy enough to understand the moment and its complexity and at least ATTEMPTING a hand at guiding the country. Someone who can rise above and lead.

I miss having an adult in the White House. /thread