Whether you agree with him or not, one thing is certain

From today's Denver Post

Lying Trump can’t be trusted

President Donald Trump reads from one of four executive orders he signed Wednesday during a visit to the Department of Homeland Security. Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images North America

The United States of America deserves to have a president who tells the truth.

The fact that we feel compelled to make this observation, so early in the new presidency of Donald Trump, suggests that the country is in for a long and miserable four years. Trump and his spokesman, Sean Spicer, need to start telling the truth.

The president of the United States needs to demand of himself and of his staff that comments presented to the American people can be trusted and supported by legitimate — and not “alternative” — facts.

Without that basic level of trust, the very functioning of our federal government and our nation will be at risk.

We hoped that we saw some sincerity in his inaugural promise that he would strive to serve and empower all Americans. But his actions betray a terrible failing, a deep character flaw within the new president that cannot be excused as campaign bluster.

Americans won’t be led by a man who works through manipulation and falsehood.