Opposition not enemy

I watched a tennis tournament in London this past weekend. Two great tennis talents battled for hours to win a coveted major tournament. After a hard-fought battle, the two players met at the net, shook hands and patted each other on the back. They recognized each other as opponents, but not as enemies.

In light of the U.S. government shutdown that has been caused by the partisan conflict between Democrats and an in-fighting Republican Party, it’s hard to imagine a time in Washington’s history when there was productive peace. How can two fiercely opposed sides of American government possibly thrive by meeting in the middle and achieving long-lasting legislative results for the American people?

To find the answer, all one has to do is study the relationship between Republican President Ronald Reagan and Democratic Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill. Although the pair faced off in numerous battles on Capitol Hill, they also shared a strong admiration and respect for one another that evolved into a friendship. In spite of fierce battles on major issues, they treated each other with respect. Ronald Reagan once said that they were friends “after 6 o’clock.”

President Clinton and Speaker Newt Gingrich worked together to restore the economy, and they did pass major reforms. No, they weren’t best friends. But there was a substantial ability to compromise.

Donald Trump classifies anyone who disagrees with him as an enemy to be reckoned with, not as someone to work with and to compromise. PAUL HARPER

Sherwood