The two candidates running for Governor of Utah recently made some surprising statements on the upcoming election. Republican Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and his opponent, Democrat Chris Peterson, released a video in which they discussed politic discourse in America. 

The footage shows both candidates standing amid a white background discussing the gubernatorial race. After each candidate stated that the audience should vote for them, Cox said, “There are some things we both agree on.” Peterson continued, “We can debate issues without degrading each other’s character.” Cox added, “we can disagree without hating each other.” 

“And win or lose, in Utah, we work together, so let’s show the country that there is a better way,” Peterson finished. 

Cox posted a tweet showing the video, noting that “as our national political dialogue continues to decline, my opponent @PetersonUtah and I decided to try something different.” 

I’m not sure this has ever been done before…but as our national political dialogue continues to decline, my opponent @PetersonUtah and I decided to try something different. We can disagree without hating each other. Let’s make Utah an example to the nation. #StandUnited #utpol pic.twitter.com/Tkr2sDCYTB

— Spencer Cox (@SpencerJCox) October 20, 2020

Amid a political discourse that has devolved into vitriol and animosity, this video is welcome — at least for those who wish to see an end to divisive rhetoric on both sides of the political spectrum. While many blame President Trump’s bellicose manner for the state of political conversation, the reality is that this trend began long before he ever ran for office. 

Political debate has always been lively in the U.S., and that should not stop. But there is an obvious problem when Americans begin to hate each other for having differing views on how government should work. Unfortunately, this level of acrimony isn’t sustainable over the long term and will prevent society from working together to develop solutions to the problems that many of us face. 

Hopefully, more like Spencer Cox and Chris Peterson will step onto the stage to repudiate those who would see us further divided. Otherwise, the situation could devolve into a disaster that nobody desires. 

Let me know what you think in the comments below!

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