We recently had an election in which we voted for national, state and local candidates, as well as an assortment of ballot measures. It’s unlikely that the vote went your way in all cases. And yet, you (and all of us) move on. The real question is how does “moving on” translate politically?
If you’re experiencing triumphalism over a candidate or candidates who were victorious, it would be patriotic to get over it. If you’re despairing over the loss of a candidate or candidates, it would be patriotic to get over it. Either way, this country has work to do and many of us are convinced that progress is only possible by effectively bridging our partisan division.
We need to re-learn how to work together across the political divide. Whether it’s the local school board or our national Congress, we need to commit to respectful dialog when it comes to important decision-making. Whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or other political party member, it would be patriotic for you to encourage your party leaders to find ways to communicate effectively with those holding opposing views regarding the appropriate American path to the future.
Braver Angels is a national organization committed to bringing Americans together, bridging the partisan divide, and strengthening our democratic republic. We offer workshops, debates, one-on-one conversations, group practice, eCourses, and a podcast, all aimed at opening minds and bringing civility back into public discourse.
To learn more, check out braverangels.org, or contact one of the co-chairs of the Columbia Gorge Alliance of Braver Angels: Me, Doug Roof (droof@braverangels.org) or Tom Aspitarte (taspitarte@braverangels.org).
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