Bridging the divide in American politics

Attempts to bridge the stark divisions in American politics will become more important than ever in the common fight against coronavirus. Here’s some practical, bipartisan ways in which this can be done.

Taking on toxic partisanship

Toxic partisans have contempt for their opponents, won’t listen to other ideas, refuse to compromise and put their own interests over the country. They dominate political discourse in the USA and too many other nations, and the public should demand an alternative.

Racist comments are damaging, so is “othering” the one who said it

Calling people racists can merely entrench them in their beliefs, but accepting our individual complexity, celebrating our common humanity and calling out the sin, rather than the sinner, can have a more positive effect.

Time for political performance reviews?

Let’s embrace the idea we should manage politicians like an executive manages their direct reports. Let’s acknowledge we have not only the power but the responsibility to give feedback, hire the best leaders and fire poor performers.