MichMash: How do we navigate the modern political climate peacefully?

This week on MichMash, Gongwer’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben speak with Republican State Rep. Mike Harris about the state of political polarization.

Michigan delegates and supporters cheer during the Republican National Convention on Thursday, July 19, 2024.

Michigan delegates and supporters cheer during the Republican National Convention on Thursday, July 19, 2024.

Since the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, many are taking a look at our political system to consider whether we are capable of having disagreements while remaining civil. On the latest episode of MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben examine whether that is possible with State Rep. Mike Harris (R-Waterford).

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In this episode:

  • Secret Services response to the attempted assassination of former President Trump
  • The current state of the political climate and whether or not it can be changed
  • How to work with others with strong opposing viewpoints

There have been multiple narratives swirling in the political arena and among voters since Saturday’s shooting. One narrative is that the Democratic rhetoric about Trump led to the attempted assassination. Another blames Trump’s repeated patterns of violent language during his rallies and speeches that set the stage for the extreme polarization in politics today.

In the wake of recent events, many on both sides of the aisle — including Harris — are looking to soften the tone in favor of a more peaceful political climate.

“I think we all probably play into the responsibility here for where the country’s gone with rhetoric and delineation of key political figures,” Harris said. “Instead of attacking policy, we’re attacking the person.” 

One key way of cooling down temperatures, Harris says, is simply building better connections with individuals across the aisle — outside of their position — so there is a foundation of mutual respect and understanding when tough conversations need to be had.

“I’ve been critical of policies with the governor or some of my colleagues, you know, sometimes on both sides of the aisle. One of the things that helps me is I try to develop a relationship with some people before I have to have those conversations,” Harris said.

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Author

  • Hernz Laguerre
    Hernz Laguerre Jr. is a Multimedia Journalist at 101.9 WDET. He is one of the co-host for "Detroit Evening Report," one of the weekend anchors for "Weekend Edition," the producer for our political podcast, "MichMash," and reports on arts, culture and politics.