Frustrations with political polarization

For almost 40 years, I have been involved in politics either as a contributor, volunteer, party chairman or candidate/officeholder. I have won and lost, learned hard lessons and managed to do almost everything wrong at least once.

Until recently, I have mostly enjoyed those experiences and the relationships with others with whom I have interacted, both Republicans and Democrats. However, I now find myself bewildered by the divisive rhetoric and the lack of consensusbuilding on issues vital to our country and our communities. My frustration with the polarization by the extremes of both major political parties, the absence of civil discourse between members of opposing parties and the almost total lack of non-partisan cooperation has caused me to reconsider my approach to supporting candidates and issues. I will still support people who share my beliefs and values.

Nevertheless, I want them to also be effective in getting things accomplished that benefit those whom they represent. I have also shifted my political focus more toward local and county government because I understand the issues and challenges of that level of public policy much better than the complexities of national and international affairs, which seem to be constantly in flux.

The result of this change has been interesting and encouraging. I find that the fickle winds of party politics tend to be significantly diminished within smaller governing bodies where the focus is to get the best outcomes for their constituents without regard to party politics. Of course, governing at any level will never be completely immune to partisan preferences but it rarely occurs in the township or borough meetings. It is only slightly more prevalent in the non-urban county courthouses.

While members of the commonwealth’s General Assembly and members of Congress may garner much more attention, money and prestige, they could learn a lot from local supervisors, council members and commissioners about how best to serve the people. Tip O’Neil once said: “All politics is local.” I would add that the most effective politics is local. JIM RODDEY

Valencia The writer is a former Allegheny County chief executive.