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The Pervasive Influence of Partisanship in American Politics

 
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Exploring the power and impact of partisanship in U.S. politics.

description: an image of a crowded political rally, with supporters holding signs and banners but with faces blurred to maintain anonymity.

PHOENIX – Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced Wednesday that a State Grand Jury returned an indictment earlier this week charging an unnamed individual with multiple counts of corruption and bribery. This latest case is yet another example of how partisanship can infiltrate even the highest levels of government. Regardless of party affiliation, corruption and bribery undermine the integrity of Congress and erode public trust in our elected officials.

THE ISSUE. A federal court last week "directed Pennsylvania counties to accept mail ballots that a voter has failed to date or misdated, without requiring them to cross-check the date with the voter's signature." This decision has sparked a heated partisan debate, with critics arguing that it opens the door to potential voter fraud, while proponents believe it ensures every vote is counted. The issue of mail-in ballots has become a battleground for partisan disputes, highlighting the deep divisions within our society.

Though partisan remains a slur in our political discourse, partisan feelings are as powerful and pervasive in this country today as at any point in history. The polarization between Republicans and Democrats has intensified, leading to a toxic political environment where compromise and collaboration seem almost impossible. The stranglehold of partisanship hampers progress and prevents meaningful solutions to the challenges facing our nation.

A new book documents the ructions between the framers of the constitution, revealing the deep partisan divisions that existed even during the formation of our democracy. The book serves as a reminder that partisanship has always been a part of American politics, and understanding its roots can help us navigate its current impact.

A new study suggests that partisanship has had little to nothing to do with whether mail-in ballots are being tossed out at Pennsylvania county election offices. Contrary to popular belief, the study found that the rejection rates of mail-in ballots were primarily due to technical errors rather than partisan biases. This research challenges the narrative that partisanship drives the decision-making process in electoral matters.

The state Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case that alleges Wisconsin's election maps violate the Constitution. Partisan gerrymandering has long been a contentious issue, with both Republicans and Democrats accused of manipulating district boundaries to gain a political advantage. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for future elections and the balance of power between parties.

One scholar argues that a radical movement to shift powers to the president would be disastrous for the federal workforce. Partisanship plays a significant role in shaping the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government. Any attempt to consolidate power within the presidency risks undermining the checks and balances that are essential to a functioning democracy.

For many Minnesotans, the only races on their Nov. 7 ballot will be their local school board election. While seemingly less consequential than national or statewide elections, these local races are not immune to partisanship. The influence of political affiliations can shape school board policies and decisions, affecting the education of future generations.

Former Congressman Jason Altmire talked to students about partisanship and his successful political career as a centrist. Altmire's experience highlights the challenges faced by centrist politicians who seek to bridge the gap between partisan factions. In an era of extreme polarization, finding common ground and promoting bipartisanship can be an uphill battle.

In conclusion, partisanship remains a powerful force in American politics, influencing everything from high-level corruption cases to local school board elections. The impact of partisanship can be detrimental, hindering progress, and preventing effective governance. Understanding the roots and consequences of partisanship is crucial for fostering a more inclusive, collaborative, and productive political environment.

Labels:
partisanshippoliticsinfluencepowerpervasivediscourseructionsconstitutionmail-in ballotselection mapsfederal workforcelocal school board electioncentrist
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