James Madison is often called “The Father of the Constitution.” He had some compelling things to say about those we choose as our leaders.
Here is one of my favorite quotes of his:
“The aim of every political constitution is, or ought to be, first to obtain for rulers men who possess most wisdom to discern, and most virtue to pursue, the common good of society; and . . . to take the most effectual precautions for keeping them virtuous whilst they continue to hold their public trust.”