In general, we sincerely appreciate the citizens who choose to run for public office, because the push and pull of public and private interests is relentless.

We have to imagine this is the way it’s always been since the foundation of our Republic, and in governments around the world through all of history. When you’re in a position of power, there will always be people asking you to use that power to their benefit, whether that benefit is noble or nefarious.

To be able to serve amidst those daily pressures and leave office without some type of scandal to your name is a remarkable accomplishment, particularly for a person as powerful as a U.S. senator.

Saxby Chambliss has served in Congress for two decades, spending eight years in the U.S. House of Representatives and another 12 years as a senator.

He announced this past week that he will not seek re-election to a third senate term, but will hang up his legislating boots. We think that’s a wise decision.

Sen. Chambliss, from what we can tell, has been an honorable representative of our state and for that, we thank him.

However, Congress has rendered itself basically useless as a lawmaking body with all the petty, self-serving, non-decisions they’ve been making.

This tactic of delay and non-action was used to perfection by the Democrats when George Bush was in office and has been continued by the Republicans during Barack Obama’s presidency. This type of governance has basically created an imperial presidency.

Chambliss, although honorable, represented the good old boy, old line, Southern Democrat style of leadership. In our opinion, that type of leadership is no longer effective nor is it needed.

The Republican Party, which currently is the top dog in this state, has a great opportunity to nominate a candidate who will bring a new kind of can-do leadership to the table as opposed to one that is steeped in backroom politics. We need leadership that is aggressive and transparent.

Ultimately, it will be up to you — the voters — to decide if there is such a candidate in Georgia and ensure he or she is the one elected. We hope for all our sakes there is.