Back in 1990 I was the youngest elected Republican county chairman in the country. In speeches I would discuss the tremendous legacy of Ronald Reagan, while quoting Bobby Kennedy, one of my favorite public servants.
Back in those days you could admire leadership. Republican, Democrat, Independent. This is before social media and the incredibly divisive partisanship we find, sadly, in America today.
I’ve been a registered Independent now for 18 years. But I’ve never regretted having a political background. It made me a better journalist. I know precinct politics, understand egos, and can almost immediately sum up a politicians character. We can do better as nation than what we’re doing today.
Tone does matter.
Reagan inspired my generation by being optimistic, idealistic and kind. I hope to live long enough to see those traits come back in stye in this country we love.