Civil, not battle: The debate needs to take a different tone

It has been talked about for years -- the caustic, aggressive and insulting tone political rhetoric has taken these days.

Those who serve in many branches of government -- and their allies in the political action committees -- spend a whole lot of time throwing barbs, drawing unsupported conclusions and vilifying those who do not agree with their philosophies or positions.

And while healthy debate is good, let's face it -- insults and finger-pointing are not conducive to getting anything done.

So, maybe, just maybe, a New Year's resolution should include a word lost on many people today ... respect.

Perhaps if they listened more and debated the issues without blinders on, those charged with leading the nation would get more done -- and perhaps learn something from each other.

Let's hope that is on the agenda for 2014.

Published in Editorials on December 13, 2013 10:53 AM