The Washington Post today has a commentary about The Myth of the Middle
The writers observe that there is a wide disparity of opinion on controverisal issues between liberal, conservative and even independent voters and that their representatives are merely reflecting this divide. Centrism and bi-partisanship is a myth.
This is a recurring topic because it is a comparison of apples and oranges: Policy and process. Most negotiations begin with the parties in opposition. But the possibilities for progress are a function of the genuine commitment of the parties to discover common interests.
Many of us in the middle want to preserve the second amendment right to own guns but prefer that it be harder for predators to get them. We prefer that woman have a right to choose but that we do what we can to reduce the number of abortions and facilitate adoption. We want a cleaner environment but are willing for industry to make a profit in that pursuit. We want universal health care but also recognize that a large part of our society makes its living by providing health care services. All controversial issues can be looked at similarly and, for the most part, viable solutions exist.
The “middle” is more about the commitment to collaboration – not about where we start.
Born 1950, Married, Living in Austin Texas, Semi
Retired Small Business owner and investor. My political interest
evolved out of his business experience that the best decisions come out of an objective gathering of information and a pragmatic consideration of costs and benefits. I am interested in promoting Centrist candidates and Policies. My posts are mostly about people and policies that I believe are part of the solution rather the problem.