Editor,
Campaign season is upon us. The people get to meet their elected officials and can interact with the candidates asking for their vote. It really is exciting to watch as We the People select our government. I believe the comparison and contrast of opponents’ records is good for better governance, but I hate the ugliness of politics.
The combative nature of the political arena where participants often have big personalities and passions produces an environment where negativity flourishes. It doesn’t have to come to mudslinging. Once a person feels attacked, even if that attack is just a challenge of their record, they tend to “punch back.” In turn, when hurt, we lash out and want to hurt others.
So, how do we engage in this political battle without resorting to mudslinging? It takes discipline not to say the things you feel justified in saying because they do more damage than good. The people want candidates to refrain from saying some things no matter how much the other guy “deserves it.”
For me, it is important to speak the truth, to inform the public, and judge candidates on their record; to hold them accountable for what they have done in their public service and leave their personal lives, rumors, accusations, and innuendos out of the fight. I believe some self-restraint is necessary and desirable.
We, as citizens, should practice discipline and refrain from saying things on social media, and elsewhere, that do not further honest public discourse.
Bob Ballinger