Op-Ed: Division in America

1-21-26

I constantly see Democrats complaining about the current division in America. Yet, they are almost never willing to engage in any counter-policy discussion unless they can find some backwoods easy target. Why? Because the whole premise of their good vs. evil argument falls apart with the slightest bit of scrutiny.
It’s very easy to label Trump and his policies as evil, much more difficult to speak with friends and neighbors with legitimate concerns and arguments and point to them as evil, despite the fact that Trump’s policies are their policies. You’re baffled by this or that action by Trump? Instead of complaining or mocking Trump, talk to someone that voted for him. I know, it’s a shocking thought!
Instead, any engagement predictably and immediately goes to ad hominem attacks — brainwashed, racist, misinformed, etc. Anything to distract or dismiss discussing the policy itself, whether that be the economy, immigration, or geopolitics.
We used to be able to debate different policies; we used to be able to make reasonable concessions.
For everyone wondering why we have so much division in this country now – I’ll tell you the exact reason: Democrats have gotten used to the censorship of any opinion that is not their own – that is the real reason we see so much division in our country.
They read and watch the Trump-bashing mainstream media and listen to liberal-dominated professors and commentators, and walk away scratching their head, wondering, ‘How in the world could anyone vote for Trump?’ But also completely avoid, at all costs, actually asking a Trump voter.
Some people, understandably, do not like to engage in political debates, regardless of position. I’m not speaking of those people. I’m referencing those who constantly push out their opinion publicly with an expectation it goes uncontested. We all see them. When people talk, respectfully, and with good intentions, they’re able to empathize and achieve common understanding.
And if you think this article is too aggressively putting the blame on Democrats, I’d like to remind you, Republicans don’t particularly love the constant mischaracterizations that we have no empathy, are homophobic, racist, fascist, brainwashed, etc., but somehow we deal with it. And I would also ask, if this article was pointing the blame in the opposite direction, would you be at all shocked to see it?
If you’re only willing to pontificate and not have any meaningful discourse with those you disagree with — you’re the cause of division, not Trump. And, of course, I’m not saying this is true of every Democrat, but enough where I feel it should be said.
I would challenge Democrats to suspend their assumptions and be willing to discuss policy with those you disagree with. If anything the discussion may help you strengthen your ability to advocate your position. What is there to lose? Do you really believe your policies to be so weak that you’re unable to support them and articulate their merit without dismissal or name-calling?
I would challenge Republicans to stand with courage in their convictions. If you hear something, however small, you believe to be mischaracterized, call it out. Who cares if you are ignored or slandered? You can only build a bridge, one brick at a time. And how much faster will that bridge be built with more helping hands, along the way?
Natalie Nice
New Milford