In announcing that he wouldn’t go along with the crowd of Republican partisans in his impeachment vote against the President, US Senator, Mitt Romney (R-UT) might have used words popularized by rock singer, Meatloaf, “I’d do anything for love, but I won’t do that“ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9X_ViIPA-Gc , but he didn’t.

Still, pulling no punches, Romney, in view of the facts, his beliefs, and as a matter of conscience, with a simple “aye” vote disavowed an otherwise unanimous Republican position. It wasn’t quite the splash evoked by John McCain’s late night, wordless thumbs down vote on legislation that would have killed the ACA, but it was close. Theatrical defiance doesn’t seem to be Romney’s style.

For those eager to draw a red on blue conclusion, don’t. Had the shoe been on the other foot, the result likely wouldn’t have been appreciably different. So what, you might ask.

Here’s what. Knowing all the while that his vote would have absolutely no impact on the outcome of the matter, Romney still invited all manner of personal and professional grief in order to stay true to his own constitution, oath of office, and perhaps set an example for about two dozen Romney grandchildren. Real leaders, as opposed to those who play one in government or elsewhere, don’t shirk from tough calls or knuckle under to pressure. To them, facing a conscience-based decision is no time to get strategic or cute by nibbling around the edges with word games. As real golfers do, you play them as they lie, put an honest number on the score card, and move on to the next hole. We need more Mitt Romneys in business, government, and elsewhere.