To the Journal editor:

“So let us not talk falsely now, the hour is getting late.” — “All along the Watchtower” by Bob Dylan

Many years ago I read the book “Toxic Workplace” and it relates closely to our current toxic political environment and upcoming presidential election

The book focuses on people who are so negative and counterproductive that they hurt the morale and productivity of the whole.

“The day this person left our company is considered an annual holiday!” – quote taken from author’s research.

The book defines “toxic” people as having the characteristics of intimidation, negativity and shaming to assert their will over others, with a tendency to sabotage team efforts if things are not to their liking. The authors also found that many toxic individuals are truly “clueless” of his or her toxicity.

They also have enablers, a “toxic group of loyalists” who either fear or at least seek his/her favor. This behavior is indirectly rewarded when their organization’s integrity and ethics have been shelved to protect the toxic.

Toxic people eventually drive the “best” and most talented out to other organizations, leaving only the toxic in the organization. By the time they are held accountable, it’s too late — a toxic environment takes hold leading to organizational decay.

Luckily you and I are still the hiring managers with the power to reject toxic politicians seeking rehire. We need to review their work records, experience, social media posts, and checking past employee references.

The book guides hiring managers on how to change the culture, creating an organization where integrity and respect are top of list values.

I put together a small list of what past employees have said about current Republican candidate, I still need to review former employees of our other candidates.

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper called him a “threat to democracy.”

Former National Security adviser John Bolton declared him “unfit to be president.” Bolton said a second term would be “unacceptable.”

Former Vice President Mike Pence declined to endorse him, citing “profound differences.”

Former Chief of Staff John Kelly stated: “A person that has nothing but contempt for our democratic institutions, our Constitution and the rule of law. There is nothing more that can be said. God help us.”

Maybe this letter will inspire a Citizen’s EPA (Electoral Protection Association) to clear out toxic politicians from office. The book authors did discuss a needed “renewal” after a toxic individual leaves, a healing and reflection period to understand how a toxic political environment took hold in the first place and the lessons learned.

Nov. 5, 2024 is hiring day and id fast approaching. Do your research and vote!