Maine Governor Janet T. Mills and former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson shared their insights on effective disagreement and bipartisanship in government during a Harvard Institute of Politics forum. The governors emphasized the importance of civility and openness in fostering productive bipartisan discussions, with HKS Dean Jeremy M. Weinstein highlighting the disappearing middle ground in politics.
Mills and Hutchinson discussed handling combative political situations and the need for open discourse within their cabinets. They both stressed the importance of choosing the best people for the job regardless of party affiliation. In a post-forum interview, Mills criticized former President Donald Trump for exacerbating divisiveness in the country, while Hutchinson acknowledged Trump’s different approach to addressing bipartisanship.
Both governors highlighted the role of young people in bridging the political divide and emphasized the importance of engaging politely and civilly in discussions. Hutchinson urged college students to lead in a way that reduces division in the country, while Mills emphasized the power of words in either dividing or unifying people.
Overall, both governors emphasized the need for civility, open-mindedness, and active listening in promoting bipartisan conversations and working towards a more harmonious political environment. By choosing the best people, engaging in productive dialogues, and promoting unity, they believe that progress can be made towards a more bipartisan approach in government.
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