While neither man embraced the other's worldview, each respected the other’s right to hold it. Each respected the other as a man.
-Thomas P. O'Neill III
Republican President Ronald Reagan and Democratic Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill didn't agree on much. However, they forged an unnatural friendship and, more importantly, worked together to passlegislation. In 1983, they passed a bipartisan Social Security bill and in, 1986, they got a tax reform bill passed.
As far as the actual legislation goes, we don't have any opinions worth reading. However, we do have an opinion on how Reagan and O'Neill's relationship compares to Congress now. Specifically, we're talking about hyperpartisanship.
What is Hyperpartisanship?
Hyperpartisanship is a situation where political parties are in such fierce disagreement with each other that they automatically distrust the other side. Hyperpartisan rhetoric can involve personal insults, attacks, and belittling the other side for honestly-held beliefs.
How Hyperpartisanship Affects Democracy
Congressional Inaction
The 118th Congress was among the least productive in history, only passing just under 150 bills. They consistently scored approval ratings in the 20s; voters are simply not satisfied with their leaders' productivity. If politicians could put aside their differences and worked together like Reagan and O'Neill, they could get things done.
Toxic Political Environment
Think about the last time you looked at political content online. Was the feedback or dialogue respectful and fruitful? Most likely not - it was likely filled with personal, ad hominem attacks and name-calling. The terrible state of online discourse causes apathy and disillusionment with our whole political system.
What You Can Do
Foster Respectful Dialogue
Contact Your Elected Officials
Contact Your Elected Officials
If you see something political either in-person or online that you disagree with, it can be very frustrating. When you talk about politics, make sure to always be respectful and honest. At Young Voter Project, we believe that everyone holds their beliefs for a good reason. Try to go into discussions with that mindset, and don't push people out of your life just because you disagree with them.
Contact Your Elected Officials
Contact Your Elected Officials
Contact Your Elected Officials
Are you annoyed at how partisan your representatives seem or how little they accomplish? Your concerns are valid - contact them to see if they pledge to oppose personal rhetoric and work across the aisle.
Diversify Your News Feed
Contact Your Elected Officials
Diversify Your News Feed
A lot of hyperpartisanship is caused by a lack of access to the other side's views. Try to escape echo chambers by actively seeking out different sources of news.
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