It’s almost over, thank God

It is no wonder that local politics lack civility, considering what we are fed these days in our mailboxes, in television ads and shows, and yes, in letters. It is a fine line between free speech, robust debate, and civility, and perhaps only dreamy-eyed idealists think there is a chance to find it. Certainly, national leaders set a poor example.

Consider the cost of giving up, though. What sort of community will we live in together after the latest issue?

There is hope. Basic reforms are needed. The N.C. Coalition for Lobbying and Government Reform wants to change the state redistricting process. On Tuesday, 63 N.C. House and 22 Senate candidates will face no competition. If lines are redrawn next time using formulas aimed at making more districts competitive, moderates might have a chance. We might see more candidates who want to work with others to serve the people.

Polk County needs civility. Some say anger and harsh words, brought to bear in spades on every controversial issue, are required “to get attention.” It’s not true. Lack of civility is a root cause of dysfunction, like campaign finances. Until the corrupting influence of money is removed, important national issues will remain unsolvable.
Until we achieve rational, civil debate locally, there will be no chance for satisfactory resolutions. The same issues will just be “studied” on and on. A bunch of J. Edgar Hoovers will continue running around compiling private dossiers. Good people will not serve. To get elected, others will pander to the worst behavior, crediting the level of anger with more weight than facts. These inevitably become victims of their own standards, once they are “the government” and must deal in facts. Former commissioners of every persuasion now recall their service bitterly. Leaders can’t take polls. Folks line up on both sides of every question. We need honorable governors, who hear and practice only civil debate, to show us the way. – JB