Governing from the middle

Given today’s political environment, it is sometimes difficult to recall a time, not so long ago, when working across party lines and seeking compromise on public policy issues was commonplace, expected, and the appropriate way to approach lawmaking. That seems like eons ago. But all is not broken, and fortunately, it’s possible to promote an environment where making public policy is not divisive and mean-spirited.

But it takes work. It takes doing our best to understand those with opposing viewpoints and recognizing that their ideas have legitimacy. It is also understanding that a good idea is a good idea, regardless of where it originated. Progress can occur on a range of issues if partisanship and posturing don’t get in the way.

Throughout my 27-year career in the economic and community development arena, it has been essential to work with Montanans of all political persuasions in order to complete projects and “get stuff done.” In fact, very little would be accomplished if we allowed partisan labels to influence who we work with. I have had the good fortune to regularly partner on important priorities with Republicans, Democrats, independents, and probably even a few Libertarians.

Unfortunately, and far too often, we just aren’t seeing our elected representatives in the Legislature work together collectively for the common good of all Montanans. While there is ample evidence that the best public policy solutions emanate from collaboration and bipartisanship, today’s political environment is too focused on viewing the opposite party as the enemy and placating the fringe elements that exist in both parties. We can and we must do better.

Republican U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho said this about partisanship: “We simply must look beyond partisan goals and find common ground as Americans. It is imperative that the Members of Congress recognize that partisanship will not serve the American people.” Sen. Crapo is correct, and his statement is just as accurate when it comes to the Montana Legislature as it is about Congress.

Should I be so fortunate to serve Havre and northern Montana in the Legislature, my commitment is to govern from the middle, look for opportunities to reach across the partisan divide, and find common-sense solutions that work for all Montanans.

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Paul Tuss is the Democratic candidate for House District 28, which includes Havre. He serves as executive director of Bear Paw Development Corp. and is past president of the Montana Economic Developers Association.