It has been a brutal week in America and I'm not the only one wondering whether the country can pull itself out of this spiral of hatred and violence.
After one of the most searing assassinations in US history, the governor of Utah pleaded for Americans to turn down the political temperature.
Yet, conversations since Charlie Kirk's death suggest few believe this is the path forward. Historical precedents show America seldom unites after tragedy, as observed in past assassination attempts against politicians.
The current incentive structures in American politics often reward division over unity, leading to further entrenchment of opposing views. Governor Spencer Cox represents a rarity amid the tumult, calling for personal reconnection over political vitriol.
This climate of division is not unprecedented in U.S. history, recalling times of intense political violence like the 1960s and 70s. However, what complicates today’s landscape is the pervasive role of social media, which Governor Cox attributes as a catalyst for recent violence.
Different narratives have quickly emerged following Kirk's death, reflecting the broader polarization in the U.S., with factions prioritizing attacks or defenses based on political identity rather than seeking understanding.
Hope for reconciliation exists, but a significant commitment from leadership on both sides appears necessary. Experts suggest addressing underlying causes of division, rather than simply reacting to symptoms, may be our best bet for fostering civil discourse once again.
As America grapples with its internal divisions, the long-road to healing seems less about returning to previous norms and more about forging new paths forward.
