Despite the political polarization rocking our nation, 69% of both Democrats and Republicans actually agree on something: our democracy is in danger of collapse.
So why is this issue not being addressed by every candidate running for office?
Because they are not being held accountable.
Rancorous political behavior has taken root at all levels of government, from Congress down to local school boards. Yet news, editorial and citizen organizations do not demand that candidates address the issue.
This must change. Any group that questions, evaluates, or reports on a candidate – especially when issuing endorsements or organizing debates/forums – must ask what concrete steps that person would take to heal our nation’s divide.
Evanston is an overwhelmingly liberal city. Nevertheless, we are no strangers to hearing some of our public servants cast those who have a different point of view as bad people.
Several organizations, such as Braver Angels, the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress, and The Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC), have put forth experience-based recommendations that elected representatives can implement to lower the temperature in politics.
We therefore urge the Roundtable to ask candidates about these proven techniques and solutions. Only by holding candidates and elected officials responsible will they see what the public sees:
The future of our democracy demands that we work together.
Svetlana Bekman
Evanston
Leslie Lepeska
Evanston
Yes to this! Thank you.