America's forewarning about Hillary Clinton 41 yrs ago was, in retrospect, one of the high points of modern historical irony.
I am referring, of course, to the removal of Hillary Rodham, 27, from the Watergate committee investigating Nixon. She was let go when the investigation ended and was declined a recommendation by Jerry Zeifman, a lifelong Democrat, for reasons of ethical deficiency that included habitual lying, attempted concealment of documents, and conspiring to violate the Constitution, the rules of the House, the rules of the committee and the rules of confidentiality. Zeifman recently stated his only regret is not having reported Ms. Rodham to the Bar.
Historical irony shocks us out of our complacencies, forces us to confront our fears, makes us remember our obligations, reminds us who we are.
But an awareness of historical irony requires critical thinking, honest reflection, virtually nonexistent today in this era of disinformation and reflexive response: 140 characters, max.
If we are to repair a country weakened by dangerously unfit leaders, we must, all of us, recognize that ironic warning 41 yrs. ago and heed it.
