Politics Aside, Here’s How To Spot Greatness in a Presidential Candidate (RealClear Politics)
Published October, 2024
Dr. Carylynn Kemp Larson explores how voters can make more informed decisions in an increasingly polarized political landscape by shifting their focus from partisan narratives to leadership capability. Rather than relying on political affiliation or campaign messaging, she encourages individuals to evaluate candidates through the lens of executive selection—a structured, research-based framework used to assess leadership effectiveness in government.
Drawing on the federal government’s Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs), she outlines key competencies such as leading change, managing people, driving results, and building coalitions as essential criteria for evaluating candidates. By applying these standards, voters can assess not only what candidates say, but how they demonstrate critical leadership behaviors through their actions, communication, and decision-making.
Ultimately, Dr. Larson argues that adopting a more disciplined, objective approach to evaluating leadership can help voters move beyond bias and contribute to stronger, more effective governance. In doing so, individuals play a vital role in shaping the future of leadership—and the health of democratic systems.
Key Takeaways
Political decisions often rely on bias instead of leadership evaluation.
Partisan perspectives can overshadow objective assessment of a candidate’s capabilities.A structured framework leads to better decisions.
Applying executive selection principles helps voters evaluate candidates more thoughtfully and consistently.Leadership competencies matter more than political messaging.
Skills like communication, decisiveness, and collaboration are critical to effective leadership.The Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) offer a proven standard.
These criteria provide a research-based way to assess leadership effectiveness at the highest levels.Voters should evaluate behavior—not just promises.
Observing how candidates act, communicate, and make decisions reveals their true capabilities.Strong leaders must work across differences.
The ability to collaborate, influence, and build coalitions is essential in a divided environment.Objective evaluation reduces the impact of bias.
Using a consistent framework helps voters move beyond emotional or ideological reactions.Informed decision-making strengthens democracy.
When voters focus on leadership capability, they contribute to more effective governance and long-term stability.
Authored by Carylynn Kemp Larson,