Former Indiana Congresswoman Jill Long Thompson visited Politics Done Right to discuss the power of bipartisanship. Her book “Across the Aisle: Why Bipartisanship Works for America” is a collective of bipartisan leaders presenting the case.
Jill Long Thompson on bipartisanship.
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In an era defined by deep political divisions, bipartisanship seems increasingly elusive. However, former Indiana Congresswoman Jill Long Thompson is determined to remind Americans why cooperation across the aisle is not only possible but essential for the health of democracy. In her recent appearance on Politics Done Right, she discussed her latest book, Across the Aisle: Why Bipartisanship Works for America, emphasizing the importance of bridging political divides in a nation that has become more fractured.
Thompson brings a wealth of experience to this conversation. As a former congresswoman, an academic who has taught ethics, and a leader appointed by President Obama to the Farm Credit Administration, she speaks from profound knowledge and responsibility. Her belief in bipartisanship is not just philosophical but practical, as she draws from her years in public service and her work in policy to argue that cooperation between opposing political parties is fundamental to effective governance.
In her conversation, Thompson stressed that democracy is not just about the outcomes but the process itself. She argues that laws and policies that emerge from a fair, honest process that respects all voices are more durable and equitable. This is a critical point in the era of gridlock, where the very fabric of American democracy is often strained by extreme partisanship. Thompson eloquently states that when we forget to respect the democratic process, we undermine the values that define us as a nation. Her argument here reflects a deeper concern for erasing democratic norms, and she sees bipartisanship as a remedy.
One of the most striking parts of her discussion centered on the importance of diversity, not just in demographics, but in ideas. Thompson cited research from McKinsey showing that companies with diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts. She extended this argument to politics, suggesting that legislators who work across the aisle are more successful in passing legislation. According to Thompson, diversity of thought leads to more robust and effective policy. This argument echoes progressive ideals of inclusivity, where varied perspectives contribute to a more just and reflective governance structure.
Thompson’s focus on diversity and collaboration provides a roadmap for how lawmakers can approach contentious issues. President Biden’s approach to bipartisanship—especially in negotiating the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act—illustrates the value of compromise. While some on the left have criticized Biden for not going far enough, his willingness to work with Republicans demonstrates leadership that respects the democratic process. Biden has handled significant legislation, like the Inflation Reduction Act, showing balance by incorporating views from both sides.
Interestingly, the conversation turned toward the structural issues in American democracy, particularly the Senate’s undemocratic tendencies. Thompson and Willies discuss how the Senate, with its equal representation for states regardless of population, creates a system where a minority can wield disproportionate power. Thompson doesn’t shy away from expressing her concerns about this imbalance, particularly in the context of the filibuster, which often serves to stymie progress rather than encourage meaningful debate. She agrees with Willies that this structure can lead to the tyranny of the minority, but she also points to the inherent challenges in reforming such deeply entrenched systems.
One of the most urgent issues Thompson addresses is the need for information literacy, especially when disinformation spreads more rapidly than ever through social media. This challenge threatens not only bipartisanship but democracy itself. Thompson laments the decline of local news outlets, which once provided communities with trustworthy information and advocates for integrating media literacy into education to combat the spread of false information. Her progressive vision aligns with efforts to reform the information ecosystem, which is often polluted by partisan media prioritizing sensationalism over facts.
Moreover, Thompson calls for reforms in how congressional districts are drawn. She points out that gerrymandering, particularly partisan gerrymandering, has led to a political landscape where too many politicians are insulated from real accountability. Safe districts, she argues, discourage politicians from engaging with opposing viewpoints since they have little to fear from the other side. By pushing for independent redistricting commissions, Thompson aligns herself with progressive calls for structural reform to make elections more fair and competitive.
Perhaps one of the most heartening aspects of Thompson’s argument is her belief that despite the dysfunctions of American politics, democracy is still the best system we have. She stresses that democracy works because it forces us to deal with complexity and contradiction and gives us a framework to manage disagreements constructively. Thompson believes that with better education, stronger institutions, and a commitment to democratic principles, America can navigate its challenges and emerge stronger.
In discussing her book Across the Aisle, Thompson reveals the intentionality behind the diversity of voices in the volume. Collaborating with figures like former Senators Trent Lott and Tom Daschle, she shows that bipartisanship isn’t just a lofty ideal but a practical necessity. By including contributions from across the political spectrum, Thompson models the approach she advocates—one where disagreement doesn’t devolve into hostility but instead leads to more thoughtful and inclusive policy outcomes.
Jill Long Thompson’s message in Across the Aisle and her discussion is clear: bipartisanship is not just possible but essential. At a time when political divisions seem insurmountable, Thompson offers a blueprint for how lawmakers and citizens alike can engage in productive dialogue and work towards solutions that benefit all Americans. Her emphasis on character, respect, and process should resonate across the political spectrum, reminding everyone that democracy thrives on inclusion, cooperation, and the constant striving for justice.
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