Americans are familiar with the effects of toxic polarization, whether it is at home, work or in Congress. Whether it’s tense conversations at the dinner table or gridlock on Capitol Hill, the political divide is hard to escape.
But experts say the consequences of political acrimony don’t stop at our shores; there are global implications, too – and they affect America’s national security, international leadership – even the future of our democracy.
In New Hampshire at a Disagree Better gathering, former Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Utah Governor Spencer Cox held a fireside conversation to discuss the geopolitical aspect of toxic polarization.
Drawing on his experience serving eight presidents – including serving as Secretary of Defense under both the Bush and Obama administrations – Gates explained how partisan politics impacts America’s global leadership.
“We have always had polarized politics in this country. The question is, what’s different? I think the key is the fact that the polarization has led to paralysis.”
“We have not had a Defense Appropriations Bill passed by the…
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