When you next hear from me, the 2020 election should hopefully be over with a clear outcome embraced by the vast majority of America as legitimate. It’s a bit spooky to feel the need to write that, but it is my hope for November as I pen this in October.

Big stuff takes time - Major issues wind through the courts or materialize slowly through state legislatures, and then Congress. While I frequently hear complaints of the “do nothing” Congress, sometimes the act of not doing something is really better for the Republic. I want things to marinate and take time. Decisions should be thoughtful. Bold action begets bold reaction.

Federalism enables diversity - Talk of 'red state this' and 'blue state that' has indicated a chopped up nation. Research data affirms our society is more polarized today than it was a decade ago. Perhaps a key to coexisting is that America reflect on our heritage of autonomous states that adhere to the Bill of Rights and respect court rulings. Governor Newsom’s “nation state” language is indeed an embrace of states' rights. I would rather have diverse states, united by shared liberties, than torn asunder. It’s hard to counter China with half a country.

Local government has a far bigger impact on our daily lives than the federal government - Of course, there are exceptions to this, like in times of war. But even in the pandemic, it has been state and county policies that have affected our lives the most. I don’t hear a lot of chatter about democracy failing on the local level. So while the current council majority in my town might flip, I also know that if the new majority advances some insane policy, I will have a chance to show up, speak for three minutes at a council meeting, and two years from now, try to right the wrong. Local governments can sustain the public’s trust, even if the federal environment is fraught.