I have been voting in presidential elections since 1972. I have voted Republican six times and Democratic six times. I refuse to align myself with any political party, I consider myself a social moderate and fiscal conservative. I will admit writing in “none of the above” has been a tempting option.
We have seen political tribalism rise to toxic levels over the past several years. No longer is someone you disagree with simply expressing an alternative view, they are expressing a view akin to treason. We have reached the stage when politics is a zero sum game, I am completely right and you are completely wrong. There is no room for debate or compromise. The probable passing of the tax plan with no bipartisan input and support is no more palatable than the passage of the Affordable Care Act without bipartisan input.
I was recently challenged to reflect on when is it time to resist? My personal view is that both major political parties have gained too much power and influence. Members are urged to vote for their candidates no matter if that person’s views or personal conduct are in agreement with their own. Perhaps using a ranked choice form of voting would level the field and allow candidates who do not have the enormous financial backing of the major parties a chance to make their vision for our country known. Establish term limits to keep fresh ideas and energy flowing into Congress. Could we agree to limit campaign spending?
I think it’s time to resist. Resist political tribalism, resist refusal to listen to other points of view, resist simply following a party line. Reflect, read other points of view, pray in your particular faith. This is a challenging time for our country. We have many significant issues to deal with, deficits, terrorism, sexual misconduct, racism. To deal with theses, we need to step back and listen to each other. We will not always agree, but we have to remember that we are Americans first and diversity and an independent spirit is what has sustained this country for over two centuries. When is it time for you to resist?
Jim Molde
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