In a 2018 poll, 93% of Americans said incivility is a problem in the U.S., and 69% believed it to be a “serious” problem. Moreover, the Elway Research Poll found that 1 in 4 Washingtonians have stopped talking to their friends or family members because of politics, and 89% of Washingtonians are worried about the future of democracy (Source: “WA’s Voters on the Health of the Political System”).
We understand that this super-majority of concern is an important call to action. We also feel encouraged by the good things that are happening.
For instance, we saw strong bipartisanship in both behavior and productive policy outcomes at least in the past 5 years of the Washington state legislative sessions. Overall, 365 of 381 bills received support from both sides of the aisles during this year’s session (95.8%), as did 467 of 481 bills that passed last year (95.9%). Even the final Senate vote on the state operating budget—typically divided—was strongly bipartisan. Many of our local governments are also centers of civility.
While we are not immune to the incapacity for cross-partisan dialogues, there is fortunately a growing chorus of people and organizations who are thinking, meeting, and writing about how to turn the tide. The Project for Civic Health is a venue where we will highlight these efforts, elevate successes, and make connections among those who want to engage.
For all the past generations who fought and worked to sustain democracy, and for all the future generations whose legacy is in our hands, this is our civic duty. Please join us and let us know what you’re doing to improve our situation.