The Widening Gap
The recent death of John McCain is a blow to anyone who subscribes to the notion that our political leaders should have some testicles (figuratively speaking — I am all for women candidates). Regardless of whether you are a Democrat or Republican or generally support the positions of one side or the other, why is it that every candidate on both sides must always adhere to what the leaders of that party say you must believe? Where is intelligent INDEPENDENT thought? The willingness to listen and consider alternative viewpoints and SOLUTIONS? The ability to search for COMPROMISE? The INTEGRITY of politicians to call out those who clearly demonstrate a lack of character, and in some cases outrageous violations of ethics and even the law, even if he/she is one of their own?
The two-party and primary systems, with their propensity to advance the views of the far right and far left, along with certain overtly-biased media characters, has served to encourage unwavering extreme views and a glaring reduction in respect, courtesy and civility. The vitriolic discourse has divided our country in a way not seen since the Civil War (which is just what apparently the Russians had in mind by meddling in our democracy). Political hatred for “the other side” has spilled over into our relationships with colleagues, friends and even family members.
I have prepared a tongue in cheek “To Do” list of many conservatives and liberals which highlights the problem and how far we have grown apart as a nation:
Conservative:Liberal to do List-1
