Lately we hear some say that we should have more civility in politics.
Well, maybe………it depends on the definition of “civility.” Merriam-Webster defines civility as: “a polite act or expression.”
Let’s all agree that name-calling, personal ridicule or the use of vile language is always out of order. We can all agree that when a political discourse degenerates to that level, it is usually due to the fact that the perpetrator has no valid argument and resorts to this poor behavior in frustration and anger.
Recently, President Obama, speaking at the annual National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. said:
“Surely you can question my policies without questioning my faith or, for that matter, my citizenship.”
But is the public confrontation of inaccurate statement(s), failed policies or the questioning of motives of a public servant uncivil? Is the factual publication of a lawmakers voting record on an issue to his constituents uncivil? Is the passionate public criticism of a lawmaker’s statements uncivil?
I contend that all of these are not only civil and appropriate, but NECESSARY.
***Ed Randazzo, is a nationally syndicated author. He has been a conservative activist and consultant for over 30 years and is currently the Chief News Editor of Life and Liberty Media***
Personally having experienced the lack of civility in CT and DC politics, in both major political parties, I believe it is time to call for reform. In Connecticut it is hard to find qualified conservative individuals willing to run for office because of the manner in which candidates are treated. I often have a harder time with Republican Party officials here than with the Democrats. It isn’t limited to one party, although the Democrats in my state seem to specialize in trashing Republicans.
Children ought to be taught civics, respect, and that it is their duty and privilege to participate in the political process. And, the training ought to start at home.
I am a former Reagan appointee, founder of a successful small business, and former university professor. The name-calling in blogs, in newspapers, etc, is out of control. I can’t even reprint some of the false derogatory comments made this year. The stronger I stand up, and the more I call for civility, the worse it gets.
We must raise the level of national discourse, not drag down the level of debate. Lately, at least in my Cognressional campaign, it seems “folks” are attacking and using abusive language more and more. I assume this means they are afraid of losing in November and their moves correlate to their level of desperation.
Daria, Thank you for your comments.I am always excited to hear from a conservative Christian candidate, and particularly from Connecticut!!! Having been born and raised in New York, I am acutely aware of the tactics of the progressive liberal Left and their media allies. Are you in a primary? I hope you will visit here again soon.
It’s hard to maintain civility when you guys think you’re fighting a holy war that justifies lies about the President. But I’ll keep trying….
Cory, with all due respect, you should be among the last to even comment on any discourse about civility when you permit the most vile and disgusting comments by some of your regular comrades. Help clean the earth by refusing to condone the disgusting name calling that some think enhances their linguistic acumen but really just exposes the dark voids in their lives where the evil one dwells. I’m sure Larry Kurtz will read this, but if not, feel free to pass along my message that he should save his keystrokes on the Life & Liberty sites as he is banned for life for his disgusting, hateful and totally baseless comments about Tonchi Weaver.
Now let’s turn to your comment here. I presume that with pedgogical brio you are declaring that the quote or the substance of a statement made in this article is inaccurate. If so, would you kindly provide the specific, verifiable proof that your claim is true? Or is this just another case of Heidelberger literary license?
Oh no. You folks make affirmative claims about citizenship and religion that defy all available public evidence. The burden of proof is yours.
Nice try, Alinsky-lite. You make a non-specific charge of “holy wars” and “lies” and you want me to provide specific evidence of your non-specific charges. Tell me you are not teaching our children this babble.