An elementary lesson of life is that systems are often invented by geniuses but usually administrated by less gifted individuals. This explains a lot about zero-tolerance policies in schools, prosecutorial discretion, and other topics of recurring interest. The best-known example, in popular culture, is Homer Simpson’s status as safety inspector at a nuclear power plant.
Now, the nation’s capital is enjoying a hearty laugh at the expense of the Secret Service, and with good reason—but more embarrassment than usual. British news correspondents say they were summarily barred from the White House during Prime Minister Theresa May’s visit because their applications listed birthdates in the British style, which is the reverse of the American practice. That is to say, instead of rendering October 31 as “10/31,” a Briton will write “31 October” or “31/10.” Which is confusing, evidently, to certain people.
