Cooling Off American Politics

A possible Harris Plan to Unite Democrats and Republicans in the humble opinion of the writer.

As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) approaches, Vice President Kamala Harris finds herself at a critical juncture. While she is not yet the confirmed Democratic presidential candidate, the momentum is swinging in her favor with Biden's endorsement. In an increasingly polarized political climate, Harris faces the formidable task of uniting a fractured electorate. One bold strategy that could redefine her campaign and potentially reshape the political landscape is selecting a moderate Republican as her running mate. This unconventional move could demonstrate a spine made of sterner stuff and offer a path forward that appeals to a broader swath of American voters.

I'll be the first to admit that it may not be an entirely sane plan, but it could be one that could provide enough outreach that could help bring people back into the fold of rational political sense. It can also be argued that many major republican political backers and die-hards have spent the majority of their war chest campaigning against Biden the past few years assuming that he would be the one stepping in to run again and that they're attempting to retrack their political course to attempt to take on not only Harris but her theoretical possible republican running mate could leave them in a weakened fiscal position, financially, politically, internally and any other number of avenues of weakness they aren't prepared to handle. Especially with trump having already announced his selection of a running mate who's blatantly and publicly been seen being forced to tow the line of trump's political standards.

The Current Political Landscape

One need only look at the comment sections on "X" or "Facebook" or any other number of social media sites postings about political matters to see,The American political arena is more polarized than ever. With partisan divisions deepening and emotions running hot, many voters feel alienated and disillusioned. Harris, known for her pragmatic approach and willingness to tackle complex issues head-on, has the potential to bridge this divide. Her tenure as Vice President has showcased her ability to handle high-pressure situations and navigate intricate policy landscapes. However, to win the presidency, she needs to appeal not only to the Democratic base but also to moderate Republicans and independents who are tired of extreme partisanship.

The Case for a Bipartisan Ticket

A bipartisan ticket, featuring a Republican running mate, could be a game-changer. It would signal a commitment to unity and governance over party loyalty. This strategy, while risky, has historical precedents. Abraham Lincoln, for example, chose Andrew Johnson, a Southern Democrat, as his running mate during the Civil War to foster national unity. Similarly, John McCain considered Joe Lieberman, a Democrat-turned-independent, as his vice-presidential pick in 2008.

Choosing a moderate Republican could help Harris capture the centrist vote. It would show that she is serious about addressing the concerns of all Americans, not just those within her party. This move could also attract disaffected Republicans who are uncomfortable with the current direction of their party but are hesitant to vote for a Democrat.

I have to admit a certain deeply cynical part of me can't help but wonder if think tank officianados within the Republican Party may have already reached the conclusion that this would be the only way moving forward many long years ago and it would be the reason for the drummed fervor behind putting all that money into trump's continuing media coverage. it would be to force the Democrats into a position where they would have to accept a republican running mate in order to have the validity and massed support necessary to pull off cleanly and soundly defeating trump, while I'd like to think that they were at their base assumptions incorrect and that trump would, if allowed to keep talking long enough, would lose the election soundly all on his own. Still leaving matters of this important to chance even in the Gray margins is an unpleasant consideration at the worst of days much less the best.

Potential Republican Running Mates

Identifying a suitable Republican running mate requires careful consideration. The ideal candidate would be someone with a reputation for bipartisanship, integrity, and a commitment to democratic principles. Here are a few potential options in no particular order:

• John Kasich: The former Governor of Ohio is known for his pragmatic approach and willingness to work across the aisle. Kasich's strong track record in governance and his vocal opposition to the extreme factions within his party make him an attractive choice.
• Larry Hogan: As the Governor of Maryland, Hogan has built a reputation as a centrist willing to challenge the status quo. His success in a traditionally blue state demonstrates his appeal to moderate and independent voters.
• Lisa Murkowski: The Senator from Alaska has shown independence in her voting record and has a history of standing up to party pressures. Her commitment to issues like healthcare and women's rights could resonate with Democratic voters. Not to mention the 1st all female double billing of president and VP it would result in.
• Mitt Romney: The Senator from Utah and former presidential candidate has consistently criticized the more extreme elements of his party. Romney's experience and statesmanship could lend gravitas to the ticket.

Building a Campaign from Strength

To campaign from a position of strength, Harris must carefully craft her messaging and policy proposals. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Emphasize Unity and Bipartisanship: Harris should underscore her commitment to bridging divides and governing for all Americans. Highlighting her bipartisan ticket as a symbol of this commitment will be crucial.
2. Focus on Common Ground: Identify key issues where there is broad agreement among voters, such as infrastructure, healthcare, and economic recovery. Propose pragmatic solutions that appeal to both sides of the aisle.
3. Champion Democracy and Rule of Law: In a time of increasing political instability, reinforcing the importance of democratic principles and the rule of law can resonate with a wide audience. Harris should stress her dedication to protecting these fundamental values.
4. Engage in Civil Discourse: Elevating the level of political discourse is essential. Harris and her running mate should model respectful, fact-based debates and encourage their supporters to do the same.
5. Highlight Accomplishments and Vision: Showcase the successes of the current administration while articulating a clear and hopeful vision for the future. This blend of experience and aspiration can inspire confidence in voters.

Next Steps Forward

As Harris navigates the path to the DNC convention, several key steps will be vital:

1. Vet Potential Running Mates Thoroughly: Conduct a comprehensive vetting process to ensure the chosen candidate aligns with Harris's values and vision. The selection must be strategic and well-reasoned.
2. Build a Coalition of Support: Engage with influential figures from both parties to build a broad coalition of support. This could involve endorsements from prominent Republicans who are willing to cross party lines.
3. Launch a Nationwide Listening Tour: Travel across the country to engage with voters directly. Listening to their concerns and incorporating their feedback into policy proposals can foster a sense of inclusion and responsiveness.
4. Leverage Media and Social Platforms: Utilize traditional media and social media platforms to communicate the campaign's message. Transparent and consistent communication will be key to building trust and enthusiasm.
5. Prepare for Pushback: Anticipate and prepare for criticism from within both parties. A strong, unified response that reiterates the campaign's commitment to unity and effective governance will be essential. I'm quite certain holdouts and extremists from both sides would have a strong opposition to anything even remotely looking like anything similar to this proposition or plan of action.

Kamala Harris stands at a pivotal moment in her political career. By considering a Republican running mate and championing a message of unity and bipartisanship, she has the opportunity to redefine the political landscape. This bold move could attract a wide range of voters and demonstrate that she possesses the courage and vision needed to lead the nation. As the DNC convention approaches, Harris's ability to campaign from strength and engage in thoughtful, inclusive discourse will be crucial in shaping her path to the presidency.

the above list is by no means comprehensive I'm sure there would be any number of republican moderates or well placed individuals within the Republican Party very well would make wonderful choices as running mate. This is also not to say that many democratic individuals would not also make wonderful choices as Vp running mate in an attempt to court the republican vote.

It is merely my opinion that these 4 individuals represent some of those most likely to be able to shoulder and deflect the accusations of being rhinos to hold on to enough of their republican/centrist Clout, history and independent ideology to make such a bid worthwhile.

The Potential Willingness of Republican Candidates

While the idea of a bipartisan ticket is intriguing, it hinges on the willingness of the potential Republican running mates. It's important to acknowledge that these assumptions rest on the candidates' readiness to cross party lines, especially in the wake of Trump's divisive influence on the Republican Party. The former president's recent poor showing at the Republican National Convention (RNC) may make moderate Republicans more open to collaborating with a Democratic candidate who emphasizes unity and sane governance. Here’s a deeper look into the motivations and potential willingness of these candidates, once again in no particular order:

• John Kasich: Known for his independent streak, Kasich has already shown a willingness to break from the Republican mainstream. He spoke at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, endorsing Joe Biden. After Trump's poor showing at the RNC, Kasich might be even more inclined to join forces with Harris, seeing it as a chance to restore a sense of sanity and bipartisanship to national politics.
• Larry Hogan: Governor Hogan has frequently criticized Trump and has positioned himself as a moderate voice within the GOP. His disapproval of the party's direction under Trump's leadership could make him a prime candidate for a bipartisan ticket. Hogan's willingness to challenge his party's extreme factions could align well with Harris's message of unity.
• Lisa Murkowski: Senator Murkowski has often found herself at odds with her party's leadership, particularly on issues of principle. After Trump's underwhelming performance at the RNC, Murkowski might see an alliance with Harris as an opportunity to champion her values and work towards meaningful bipartisan solutions. Not to mention I'm sure she would see the value in the historical first ever double billing the female president female vice president.
• Mitt Romney: Senator Romney has been one of the most vocal Republican critics of Trump. His principled stances on various issues, including his vote to convict Trump during the impeachment trial, highlight his commitment to integrity over party loyalty. The recent RNC fallout could further motivate Romney to support a bipartisan effort, especially if it aligns with his vision of ethical and effective governance.

Strategic Advantages and Challenges

While the theoretical willingness of these candidates is a significant factor, Harris’s campaign must carefully navigate the strategic advantages and challenges of forming a bipartisan ticket.

Strategic Advantages:

1. Broadening Appeal: A bipartisan ticket could attract a wider range of voters, including independents and moderate Republicans disillusioned by Trump's influence on their party.
2. Reinforcing Unity: Demonstrating a commitment to working across party lines would underscore Harris's dedication to healing national divisions and fostering a cooperative political environment.
3. Innovative Leadership: The move would position Harris as a forward-thinking leader willing to prioritize the country's well-being over partisan politics, potentially inspiring a new era of bipartisan collaboration.
4. Capturing the Middle Ground: By appealing to centrist voters, Harris could secure crucial swing states and increase her electoral chances in a highly divided political landscape.

Challenges:

1. Party Resistance: Both Democrats and Republicans may resist this unconventional approach. Harris will need to navigate potential backlash from her own party's base, who may view the inclusion of a Republican as a compromise of core Democratic values.
2. Ideological Differences: Significant policy differences between Harris and her Republican running mate could complicate the campaign's messaging and platform. Clear communication and a focus on shared goals will be essential. The potentially unifying nature of them attempting to prevent the collapse of modern political discourse by unifying in the interests of solidifying the national political economy into something resembling sanity would be highly beneficial.
3. Electoral Dynamics: The effectiveness of a bipartisan ticket will depend on the overall political climate and voters' receptiveness to cross-party collaboration. Harris will need to gauge public sentiment carefully.

Campaigning from Strength

To effectively campaign from strength, Harris must build a robust strategy that leverages the advantages of a bipartisan ticket while addressing potential challenges head-on. Here are some additional steps to strengthen her campaign:

1. Develop a Cohesive Platform: Ensure that the campaign's platform reflects a balance of both Democratic and Republican values, focusing on common-sense solutions to pressing issues. Emphasize areas of agreement, such as economic recovery, healthcare reform, and infrastructure development.
2. Highlight Success Stories: Showcase examples of successful bipartisan initiatives and collaborations, both from Harris's tenure as Vice President and her Republican running mate's political career. This can build credibility and demonstrate the viability of a united approach.
3. Engage Key Stakeholders: Proactively engage with influential figures from both parties, including lawmakers, community leaders, and interest groups. Building a broad coalition of support will be critical in gaining legitimacy and momentum.
4. Leverage Media and Public Engagement: Utilize media appearances, town halls, and social media platforms to communicate the campaign's vision and respond to voters' concerns. Transparency and responsiveness will help build trust and enthusiasm.
5. Prepare for Opposition: Anticipate and address criticisms from both sides of the political spectrum. Develop a strong, consistent narrative that emphasizes the benefits of bipartisanship and the campaign's commitment to governing for all Americans.

Kamala Harris’s potential decision to select a sane Republican as her running mate could redefine the upcoming election and set a new standard for political leadership in the United States. In the wake of Trump's poor showing at the RNC, the willingness of moderate Republicans to join forces with Harris presents a unique opportunity. By emphasizing unity, common ground, and principled governance, Harris can campaign from a position of strength, appealing to a broad and diverse electorate. This bold strategy, while not without its challenges, could pave the way for a more collaborative and effective political future, demonstrating that a spine made of sterner stuff can indeed bridge the deepest divides.

I won't say none of these present options don't have their own shall we say Hornets nests of issues call them clashes of personality or difficulties in meshing their particular sets of ideologies these present, may not necessarily always go particularly well but I believe some of them have a good chance.

The Not-So-Subtle Advantages of a DNC lead, Bipartisan Win

In a political landscape dominated by extreme partisanship and the relentless media blitz orchestrated by former President Trump and his allies, a bipartisan ticket led by Kamala Harris offers a strategic advantage that extends beyond mere electoral success. This move would allow both the Democratic and Republican parties to marginalize Trump and his cronies, bringing much-needed stability and a cooling-off period to American politics. Here’s how a Harris-led bipartisan win could achieve these goals:

Marginalizing Trump and His Allies

1. Neutralizing Trump’s Influence: A successful bipartisan ticket would signify a collective repudiation of Trump’s divisive politics. By joining forces with a respected Republican, Harris would signal a unified front against the chaos and corruption that characterized Trump’s tenure. This alliance would undermine Trump’s claims of a rigged system and discredit his efforts to remain a central figure in American politics.
2. Weakening Trump’s Base: Trump's power largely stems from his devoted base. A bipartisan ticket that attracts moderate Republicans and independents would erode this base, leaving Trump and his allies with a diminished pool of supporters. This shift would make it harder for Trump to rally significant political power or media attention.
3. Isolating Extremists: By forming a coalition with moderate Republicans, Harris can isolate the more extreme elements within the Republican Party. This strategy would push Trump and his cronies to the fringes, reducing their influence on mainstream political discourse and policymaking.

Restoring Control and Stability

1. Reclaiming Party Identity: Both parties have struggled with internal divisions exacerbated by Trump’s leadership. A bipartisan ticket would help Republicans reclaim their party identity by aligning with a candidate who represents traditional conservative values, rather than Trump’s brand of populism and authoritarianism. For Democrats, it would showcase their commitment to inclusive governance and pragmatic solutions. Both parties have struggled to reclaim and hold on to their unique political identities in the modern age.
2. Reasserting Democratic Norms: The alliance would reinforce the importance of democratic norms and institutions. By working together, Harris and her Republican running mate could promote policies that strengthen checks and balances, uphold the rule of law, and protect the integrity of elections. This focus on democratic principles would counteract the erosion of norms witnessed during Trump’s administration. Especially in today's modern world of easily accessible and citizen creatable intentional or unintentional disinformation campaigns you can have far reaching national and international effects.
3. Cooling Off Political Tensions: Trump’s constant media presence and incendiary rhetoric have contributed to a highly charged political environment. A bipartisan administration could inject much-needed cooling-off time into American politics. By prioritizing cooperation and civility, Harris and her running mate could reduce partisan hostility and create a more constructive atmosphere for addressing national challenges. Since trump's loss in the last election his constant media presence has whipped the media world into a nonstop frenzy of coverage about him, his struggles, and his unending attempts to retain any shreds of dignity or power he may have once had. Republican controlled media outlets have resoundingly put the spotlight on him(Trump) and the democratically controlled media outlets have had no choice but to cover the events to provide parity over the past year.

Strategic Campaign Benefits

1. Capturing the Center: The bipartisan ticket would appeal to a wide range of voters who feel alienated by extreme partisanship. This includes independents, moderate Republicans, and disillusioned Democrats. Capturing the center would not only enhance electoral prospects but also foster a more inclusive and representative government.
2. Combating Media Manipulation: Trump's year-long media blitz under current RNC PACs has kept him in the spotlight. A bipartisan campaign would counter this narrative by presenting a compelling alternative focused on unity and practical governance. This strategy could shift media attention away from Trump and his allies, diminishing their ability to dominate the news cycle.
3. Strengthening National Security: A bipartisan administration would be well-positioned to address national security concerns that have been exacerbated by Trump’s foreign policy decisions and rhetoric. By presenting a united front, Harris and her running mate could restore alliances, rebuild trust with international partners, and reinforce America’s leadership on the global stage.

Long-Term Implications

1. Setting a Precedent for Bipartisanship: A successful bipartisan administration would set a powerful precedent for future political collaboration. It would demonstrate that Americans can overcome partisan divides to address common challenges, paving the way for more cooperative governance in the future.
2. Promoting Policy Innovation: Bipartisanship can lead to more innovative and effective policy solutions. By bringing together diverse perspectives, Harris and her running mate could develop policies that draw on the best ideas from both parties, resulting in more balanced and sustainable outcomes.
3. Rebuilding Public Trust: The American public’s trust in government has been eroded by years of partisan conflict and scandal. A bipartisan administration committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership could help rebuild this trust. By prioritizing the public interest over party politics, Harris and her running mate could restore faith in the democratic process.

Kamala Harris's consideration of a Republican running mate represents more than a bold campaign strategy—it embodies a transformative vision for American politics. By uniting with a respected Republican, Harris can marginalize Trump and his allies, restore stability, and inject a cooling-off period into the political climate. This move would allow both parties to reclaim control and refocus on governance, setting a new standard for bipartisanship and collaborative leadership. The long-term benefits of such a strategy include strengthened democratic norms, innovative policy solutions, and a renewed public trust in government, positioning the United States for a more stable and prosperous future.

Dealing with Holdouts and Facilitating a Cooling Off Period

In any bold political strategy, there will inevitably be detractors. Kamala Harris's possible consideration of a Republican running mate is no exception. The most ardent supporters of Trump, often referred to as the MAGA base, would likely view those Republicans willing to collaborate with Harris as "traitors" or "RINOs" (Republicans in Name Only). However, this faction, while vocal, represents a minority within the broader Republican Party. Addressing their discontent and facilitating a period of political realignment will be crucial for stabilizing the GOP and fostering a more cooperative political environment.

Addressing the Holdouts

1. Understanding the Core Concerns: It's essential to recognize the concerns and fears of Trump’s die-hard supporters. Many feel disenfranchised and fear that their voices will be ignored in a bipartisan government. Acknowledging these concerns is the first step towards addressing them.
2. Promoting Open Dialogue: Engaging in open, respectful dialogue with this faction can help reduce hostility and misunderstanding. Forums, town halls, and other forms of direct communication can provide a platform for these voters to express their concerns and feel heard.
3. Highlighting Common Ground: Emphasize policies and values that resonate across the political spectrum. Issues like job creation, national security, and infrastructure development can appeal to a wide audience, including those skeptical of a bipartisan ticket.
4. Showcasing Republican Leadership: Ensuring that the Republican running mate has a prominent role in the administration will demonstrate a genuine commitment to bipartisan governance. This visibility can help reassure skeptical Republicans that their values and perspectives are being represented.

Facilitating a Cooling Off Period

1. Gradual Realignment: The realignment of the Republican Party will be a gradual process. Over the next few years, it will be vital to support and promote moderate Republican leaders who advocate for constructive policies and reject divisive rhetoric. This slow and steady approach can help the party stabilize and regain its footing.
2. Encouraging Grassroots Movements: Grassroots movements within the Republican Party can play a significant role in this realignment. Encouraging local and state-level initiatives that promote moderation and cooperation can help build a foundation for a more centrist party.
3. Promoting Integrity and Accountability: Ensuring that Republican leaders who align with the bipartisan administration are held to high standards of integrity and accountability can rebuild trust within the party. This focus on ethical leadership can distinguish them from the corruption and cronyism associated with Trump’s administration.
4. Building Coalitions: Forming coalitions with other moderate and centrist political groups can amplify the voices of those advocating for a sane and stable Republican Party. These alliances can provide additional support and resources for the realignment process.
5. Fostering Media Narratives: The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception. Promoting stories and narratives that highlight successful bipartisan efforts and the benefits of a more moderate Republican Party can help shift public opinion over time.

Long-Term Benefits

1. Stabilizing the GOP: A successful realignment and stabilization of the Republican Party, making it more competitive and capable of effective governance. This stability is essential for a healthy democratic process where multiple perspectives are represented and debated.
2. Reducing Polarization: By moving away from the infection of extreme partisanship, the GOP can contribute to a reduction in national polarization. A more centrist party can collaborate with Democrats on key issues, leading to more balanced and sustainable policy solutions.
3. Enhancing Governance: A bipartisan approach can lead to more effective governance. When both parties work together, they can address complex issues more comprehensively and develop policies that benefit a broader range of Americans.
4. Strengthening Democratic Norms: Promoting a culture of bipartisanship and cooperation can strengthen democratic norms and institutions onces the cancerous infections of fascism and hateful intolerance and other shall we say more extremist viewpoints are successfully slowly methodically suppressed, repressed, delayed, deferred, or simply driven out of public view. This approach emphasizes the importance of compromise, respect for differing opinions, and the rule of law.

While there will undoubtedly be holdouts among Trump’s most fervent supporters, a Harris-led bipartisan ticket presents a unique opportunity to marginalize these extremes and foster a period of political realignment within the Republican Party. By addressing the concerns of these voters, promoting open dialogue, and showcasing the benefits of bipartisan governance, the administration can help stabilize the GOP and reduce national polarization.

It is the fervent belief of the writer of this article, me, Christopher Vardeman that politics is the continuing act of compromise to find solutions that no one is happy with, where both sides can accept and move forward to build connections to drive the nation day by day into a better more harmonious union and that voices of extremism, chaos, and violence will always be with us. That we need to continue to suppress that inner conflict to harness those of us that just want to live fruitful productive lives in peace to enjoy the happiness of our day-to-day lives to be allowed to do and to live as we choose peacefully in the comfort of our own homes

Hopefully a bipartisan win would act over time, as this cooling-off period and gradual realignment,it would be vital for creating a more sane, effective, and cooperative political environment, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.