Dear Editor,
United States politics functions within the framework of a constitutional federal republic. The president, Congress, and judiciary share powers reserved for the national government, and the federal government shares sovereignty with the state governments. Since the American Civil War, two main parties have dominated our political landscape.
On this Sunday, before election day, the outcome as to who will become our next president and which political party will hold majority control of the House and the Senate is met with consensus – it’s too close to call.
For me, the next few days before outcomes become known will be spent imagining what the “more perfect union,” as referenced in the preamble of the United States Constitution, would look like.
We need a greater brotherhood of man. Yes, it’s about establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, promoting general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty. But what is required of our elected officials to recognize that this country can and should be better than it is?
Of note – starting in the 1970s, researchers found that when a team of individuals share a belief in their unified efforts, they can overcome challenges and produce intended results – a concept known as “collective efficacy.”
So, for more meaningful change to originate in Washington, D.C., we need more compromise and broader consensus. I envision our new president and Congress working together for the common good. Political party affiliation will be surrendered as elected officials unify behind the common theme of “nation first.” Members serving in each legislative chamber will embrace concessions as fundamental to agreement.
At the start of the next legislative session, immediate agreement will be sought while working to expand access to affordable health care, restore public school education, eliminate hunger and homelessness, and seek a balance between environmental protection and sustainable energy.
“You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will live as one.” - John Lennon.
Peter Wibell, Rutledge