What former Gov. David Walters has to say about the polarization of current politics

Editor's note: In light of the current political climate, we asked Oklahoma's former governors to share their insights on collaboration from their experiences as head of state.

In an era marked by intense political polarization and ideological divides, the importance of cooperative governing, collaboration and compromise is worth a moment.

Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy is now a former for having the temerity to collaborate with Democrats to extend the deadline for the shutdown of the U.S. government. We could put this in the “No Good Deed Goes Unpunished” file, but let’s instead use it for a moment of recognition that the ability to work with opponents is not merely a political virtue; it is a fundamental necessity for conducting the business of our diverse nation and state.

Sadly, the frustration many citizens feel today is a reflection of the growing disconnect between political leaders and their duty to serve the greater good. Public policy and discourse cannot always be about trying to make the opponent look bad or, worse, making up facts and issues to justify divisive tactics when politically useful. Oklahoma’s low voter registration and turnout is a symptom of this frustration.

As former governors, we may offer unique perspectives on leadership, one that underscores the merits of collaboration and compromise.

When a majority Democratic Legislature was not willing to pass certain reforms that I advocated as governor in the early 1990s, I invited the entire Republican delegation to the Governor's Mansion for breakfast and had a productive conversation. We made some friends at breakfast that helped with the cause and we nudged the majority party to consider more of the reforms.

The essence of democracy lies in the halls of legislatures and congresses where different voices converge, where debates are held and where laws are forged. It is in these spaces that the values of cooperation and compromise are meant to shine.

Collaboration acknowledges differing viewpoints are not to be feared but embraced as essential components of a healthy debate. By engaging in dialogue with political opponents, lawmakers have the opportunity to refine their ideas, to test the strength of their arguments, and ultimately to arrive at policies that are more robust and balanced.

Compromise acknowledges that absolute adherence to one's principles can lead to gridlock and stagnation. Through compromise, elected officials might not satisfy every ideological extreme but can, nevertheless, make tangible improvements in the lives of their constituents.

The belief in the importance of collaboration and compromise is grounded in the recognition that elected officials are servants of the people, not the representatives of a single faction or ideology.

Cooperation and compromise is a demonstration of strength, humility and commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted by the electorate. They permeate the very essence of a healthy democracy. They enable a nation to navigate crises, manage conflicts and adapt to changing circumstances. They foster a sense of unity and shared purpose, transcending party lines and ideological divides.

My prayer is that elected officials at all levels of government heed this call, recognizing that their foremost duty is to serve the best interests of all citizens. Only through cooperation and compromise can we rekindle the spirit of democratic governance and restore the faith of the people in their political institutions. It is not a choice but an imperative for a thriving and united state and nation.

David Walters served as the 24th governor of the state of Oklahoma.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: David Walters: Don't fear differing views; embrace healthy debate