As the United States approaches another pivotal election year, it becomes more polarized than ever. The political landscape is marked by deep divisions woven into the fabric of everyday life, straining the core of American democracy. These divides have grown over decades, fueled by shifts in leadership styles, changes in the media environment, and broader societal trends.
Yet beneath the noise and rhetoric is a quiet, persistent hope among many Americans—a desire to move beyond this division and rediscover common ground. To understand how we arrived here and what we can do to change course, we must look at the historical roots of polarization, the role of leadership, the media’s influence, and the public’s response. More importantly, we must explore how we might come together to heal and move forward.
The Roots of Division
Polarization in the United States didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of years of ideological shifts and political battles that have left deep scars. The 1980s saw a significant change with the rise of the conservative movement under President Ronald Reagan, whose policies and rhetoric around smaller government and free-market ideals resonated deeply with conservative voters but concerned others. This period marked the beginning of a more ideologically rigid Republican Party, further fueled by the emergence of conservative media voices like Rush Limbaugh, whose influence extended far beyond the airwaves.
The 1990s only deepened these divides. The Republican Revolution of 1994, spearheaded by Newt Gingrich, brought an aggressive style of politics that prioritized partisan wins over bipartisan cooperation. This era also saw the media landscape transform with the advent of cable news channels like Fox News and MSNBC, which began to cater specifically to partisan audiences. The repeal of the Fairness Doctrine in 1987 allowed broadcasters to present more one-sided views without the obligation to offer balanced coverage, laying the groundwork for the segmented and often antagonistic media environment we see today.
As a result, Americans increasingly found themselves in echo chambers, consuming news that affirmed their beliefs and further entrenched ideological divides.
The Unity and Unraveling of a Nation Post-9/11
In the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the United States experienced a profound sense of unity and shared purpose. Americans of all backgrounds rallied together in a display of national solidarity, marked by a surge in patriotism, community support, and collective mourning. Flags flew high, strangers comforted one another, and political differences were set aside as the nation came together to honor the lives lost and to support first responders and military personnel. This unity was reflected in Congress's near-unanimous approval of measures to respond to the attacks, including the authorization of military force in Afghanistan to dismantle al-Qaeda and bring those responsible to justice.
However, as the War on Terror expanded and the U.S. pursued prolonged military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq, the initial unity began to fray. The invasion of Iraq in 2003, justified by disputed claims of weapons of mass destruction, sparked widespread controversy and eroded trust in the government’s decisions. The prolonged conflicts, marked by rising casualties, questionable tactics like enhanced interrogation, and significant civilian deaths, deepened divisions at home. As the wars dragged on with no clear end, the national narrative shifted from one of united resolve to one of disillusionment, political polarization, and growing public skepticism about the true costs and motivations behind these conflicts. The initial sense of collective purpose and unity unraveled, giving way to a more fractured and weary nation grappling with the complex legacy of post-9/11 foreign policy decisions.
The Hope and Unity of the 2008 Election
The 2008 election of Barack Obama was a watershed moment filled with hope and promise for millions of Americans. His campaign, characterized by the powerful message of "hope and change," inspired a remarkable and diverse coalition of voters—young people, people of color, women, and even many traditionally conservative voters—drawn to his vision of a more inclusive and united America. Obama’s candidacy symbolized a turning point in the nation's history as he broke barriers to become the first Black American to be elected President. His message resonated within the United States and worldwide, where many viewed his election as a renewed commitment to democratic ideals and an opportunity for the U.S. to reset its image on the global stage.
A poignant moment during the campaign that highlighted the decency and integrity of American democracy came when Senator John McCain, Obama’s opponent, defended him against false accusations at a town hall event. When a woman expressed distrust in Obama by claiming he was an Arab, McCain gently corrected her, affirming that Obama was a "decent family man, a citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues." This act of human decency and respect for a political rival stood out in a campaign season increasingly defined by sharp divides, reminding the nation of the shared values that transcend partisan differences.
Obama’s election was celebrated worldwide, as many placed their hopes in his administration to bring a fresh approach to governance and a new chapter in U.S. leadership. It was a turning point for America and global democracy, offering a chance to renew commitments to equality, justice, and diplomacy. His presidency became a powerful symbol of possibility and the belief that history's arc could bend toward a more just and inclusive future.
Leadership’s Role in Polarization
Leaders have always played a critical role in shaping the nation's political landscape, and the past few decades have seen a shift toward more divisive and partisan leadership. From Reagan’s rhetoric framing government as the enemy of freedom to Gingrich's zero-sum approach to governance, leaders have often chosen to rally their bases through division rather than seek unity. On the Democratic side, the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and Affordable Care Act under President Obama, while expanding healthcare access, became a flashpoint for polarization, highlighting the deep ideological chasms between the parties.
The consequences of such leadership are significant. Divisive tactics may energize a political base but also contribute to legislative gridlock, making bipartisan cooperation increasingly rare. This approach fosters a toxic political climate where compromise is seen as a weakness, and opponents are vilified rather than engaged constructively.
Hope & Light
Yet, there have been moments of hope—leaders who have sought to bridge divides and govern with a broader, more inclusive vision. Leaders like Lyndon B. Johnson, who championed civil rights, demonstrated how courageous governance can transform the nation. JFK and RFK, through their evolving commitment, laid the groundwork for significant progress in Civil Rights. President Johnson’s deep knowledge of Congress and his relationships within it enabled the passage of civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, turning his and the Kennedys’ vision into reality.
Robert F. Kennedy, as Attorney General and later as a Senator, became a strong advocate for racial and economic justice. He enforced civil rights laws, supported activists like the Freedom Riders, and built connections with leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. RFK’s dedication to social justice and economic reform solidified his legacy as a crucial ally in the fight for civil rights, highlighting his role in the broader struggle for equality.
Leaders like Jimmy Carter exemplified a commitment to human decency and integrity. His presidency was rooted in empathy and a genuine care for people transcending partisan lines. His focus on human rights and community uplift sought to heal rather than divide, reminding the nation of the power of compassionate leadership during and after his presidency.
Ronald Reagan’s vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill” resonated with optimism and inclusivity. He saw immigrants and immigration as integral to the American Dream, believing America could be a beacon of hope and opportunity for people from all walks of life. Reagan’s ability to celebrate the diverse contributions of immigrants united more than it divided, reflecting the nation’s core values of freedom and opportunity for all. These leaders remind us that the best of American leadership draws from a shared sense of purpose, inspires unity, and honors the diversity that strengthens the nation.
The Media’s Influence
The media’s role in exacerbating polarization cannot be overstated. Over the past few decades, the rise of cable news, talk radio, and social media has fragmented audiences and amplified extremes. The repeal of the Fairness Doctrine removed the requirement for balanced viewpoints, allowing networks to cater exclusively to specific ideological audiences. Platforms like Fox News became synonymous with conservative views, while MSNBC appealed to liberal viewers, sidelining moderate voices and pushing the media landscape to its ideological edges.
Social media has only intensified this trend, creating echo chambers where sensationalist and divisive content often rises to the top. Algorithms designed to maximize engagement frequently prioritize extreme viewpoints, feeding into a cycle of outrage and misinformation. This environment makes it difficult for centrist perspectives to be heard, even though most Americans, valuing practical governance over partisan posturing, live somewhere in the middle.
They are left yearning for leaders who can cut through the noise and focus on sensible, practical solutions.
The Public’s Response and Responsibility
Americans have responded to the growing polarization in different ways. Some have become more politically active, motivated by a sense of urgency to defend their beliefs. This has manifested in the rise of grassroots movements on both sides of the political spectrum, from the Tea Party to Black Lives Matter. Yet, as engagement has increased among some, others have retreated, overwhelmed by the constant conflict and a sense that their voices are lost in the fray.
Psychological factors like group identity and confirmation bias shape these responses. People naturally gravitate towards communities that reflect their values, and a polarized media landscape only reinforces this dynamic. However, there is a growing recognition of the need to step away from the extremes. Many Americans are tired of the relentless partisanship and call for more cooperation from their leaders.
Initiatives that promote dialogue and understanding across ideological lines are gaining support, reflecting a desire to move towards a more collaborative approach to governance.
The Consequences of Division
The costs of polarization are evident in every aspect of American life. In government, polarization has led to legislative standstills, where compromise is a rarity and progress on critical issues still needs to be made. This gridlock hinders the government’s ability to address pressing challenges and erodes public trust in institutions, deepening cynicism and disillusionment.
Beyond politics, polarization affects personal relationships and community bonds. Families and friends are increasingly divided along political lines, and political conversations often become contentious or avoided altogether. This societal divide reflects a broader trend of Americans sorting themselves into like-minded groups, both online and offline, reducing opportunities for constructive dialogue across differences.
While this strategy resonated with a significant segment of the electorate, it also deepened societal divides, as speeches and policies frequently targeted immigrants, religious minorities, and political opponents, amplifying existing tensions. Such polarization culminated in a refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election, which falsely alleged widespread voter fraud. This denial led to a constitutional crisis, most dramatically seen in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol attempting to overturn the 2020 election.
As the 2024 election looms, there are growing concerns that similar division and election denial tactics will be repeated, threatening the stability of American democracy. This period serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic norms and the risks posed by leaders who exploit division for political gain.
Most alarmingly, our polarization threatens the foundations of democracy itself. As trust in institutions wanes and partisan animosity grows, democratic norms like respect for the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power are weakened. January 6, 2021, is a stark reminder of what can happen when divisions are allowed to fester unchecked. Addressing polarization is not just a matter of political expedience; it’s essential for the health and stability of the nation.
A Path Forward: Reconciliation and Unity
Despite the daunting challenges, signs of hope and efforts are underway to bridge the divide. Bipartisan achievements, like the First Step Act on criminal justice reform and recent infrastructure investments like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (2021), CHIPS and Science Act (2022), and Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (2022), demonstrate that cooperation is still possible. Community dialogue initiatives, cross-party town halls, and organizations dedicated to fostering conversations across ideological lines are also helping to rebuild trust and reduce polarization.
As the 2024 election approaches, the choice before the American people is clear: continue down the path of deepening division or step back and embrace a future of reconciliation and unity. This election is not about policy only but a greater unity and a return to normal. Our desire for healing and common-sense governance that transcends partisan battles is strong. Americans are capable of more than the divisions that have been sown among us; we can rise above the noise to embrace a more hopeful and inclusive leadership vision that honors every individual's dignity and worth.
Ultimately, the power to change lies with the American electorate. It begins and ends with us, the American people. By choosing leaders who prioritize unity over division and our willingness to engage in open dialogues and differing views, we can heal the fractures that have so profoundly affected our democracy. In doing so, it is crucial to acknowledge and celebrate America’s plurality—our vast tapestry of faiths, beliefs, multiculturalism, and worldviews that enrich our nation. This diversity is not a weakness but a profound strength that has always fueled innovation, resilience, and a dynamic spirit of inclusivity.
We are not defined solely by our disagreements but by our capacity to find common ground and mutual respect in our differences. It’s time to remember what unites us as a nation and to work together toward a future that reflects the best of who we are—one that honors our shared humanity, embraces our diverse voices, and upholds the promise of a perfect union.
Remembering Lincoln’s Words
Abraham Lincoln said these words in his first inaugural address; they are worth remembering today: “I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”
Let every American embrace and encourage today the better angels of our nature.
By Ron Starbuck, Publisher/CEO/Executive Editor of Saint Julian Press, Inc.
Saint Julian Press. 2024. Bridging the Divide: A Path to Reconciliation and Unity in American Democracy. Saint Julian Press.
The Open AI - ChatGPT Plus service was used to research and organize this essay.
Comments