by Stephen N. Reed and Ken Ramsey
Soon after we met as graduate students at Emory University in Fall 1989, we were both struck by how similar our observations about state politics were.
One of us would complain about a corrupt political leader back in our state, a power-lord who was in it for himself and not at all for the people. This would prompt the other to say, “Oh yes, that reminds me of one of our governors … .”
But here was the twist. One of us was a Republican from then-Democratic West Virginia, while the other was a Democrat from Texas, a state moving towards being Republican.
What we learned from our conversations was that corruption knows no single political party.
This was a revelation.
Though we were registered in different political parties, we were able to have any number of public policy and religion discussions, usually finding over 80% agreement.
Restoring the political center
Nothing is more important to the health of America’s political system than the restoration of our political center. That center has moved this way or that in certain states in recent years.
This center used to be the largest section of our electorate, and both parties accepted this as the norm.
Now is the time to re-frame the conversation to focus on the shared concerns and values that unite far more than they divide. For many, the left/right cavern may or may not be bridgeable.
However, sufficient common ground may still be found to forge new connections and re-invigorate historical ties on specific and important issues.
A crucial role in public policy
In recent years, we have seen many centrist, moderate, and Independent voters disengage from our national and state political process.
They have become turned off by the options given them by both parties, not to mention the bitter rancor and scorched earth tactics that have become commonplace today.
Ironically, even if these more centrist voters feel of little influence, they are likely the only group of voters today who can bring some stability again to our volatile politics.
Those in the broad center can renew their historic role again, helping public policy efforts to take place gradually, to be tested for their effectiveness before going further.
You may be part of this broad center already
Perhaps you are asking yourself just who is part of this broad center in American politics. The answer may include you if you have ever thought that securing half a loaf on a policy issue is better than none.
Perhaps you are more open on some issues than others. You still qualify.
Take a look at this sampling of some sizable sub-groups that have often been part of the political center before:
- Millions of registered Independents
- Openminded voters in both major parties
- All voters who believe in our genius American system of checks and balances — and our three separate and equal branches of government
- Average citizens in the lower and middle classes who wonder what the extremes in both parties really offer them economically
- Parents and grandparents who wonder what kind of negative society their children will inherit.
Exchanging pundits for mini-legislators
Thanks to the 24/7 news cycle, we have all become opinionated pundits. But instead of simply yelling our views at one another, we need to begin the more thoughtful work of being mini-legislators.
We can learn to hammer out decent agreements in all public policy discussions with each other, large and small. Where do our views intersect?
No settled beliefs need to be sacrificed by anyone along the way. If you can only go so far in a compromise, fine. The other person should respect that, just as you respect their limits, too.
If you want to create a political climate that is less toxic and much more creative and substantive in finding meaningful compromises, get back in the game.
Your country needs you like never before.
Stephen N. Reed is a writer from Kingwood and a former radio host with West Virginia Radio Corp. Ken Ramsey is a minister from Texas. Write to them at: ramseyandreed@gmail.com.
