The results of the recent presidential election showed how little value a large number of Americans place on character today. It made me reflect on my 40-year career as a commercial banker and federal bank regulator. Commercial banking underwriting is based on the principles of the “Five Cs of Credit.” The No. 1 “C” is character. If the borrower’s character is flawed or corrupt the other four “Cs” (capacity, conditions, credit, collateral) can all be strong, but the loan should not be made, I was taught. On the other hand, if the borrower’s character is strong, but one of the other four “Cs” has a slight weakness, the loan can still be made because strong character can outweigh the weakness.