Election Day ushered in many changes, both nationally and here in Wyoming. Nationally, we saw a Democratic landslide at a level that few expected. Democrats will take control of the U.S. Senate by winning in traditionally Republican strongholds. Texas, Kansas, Iowa and Ohio put Democrats in the Senate. As I write this, Democrats lead in Alaska and Mississippi. In the House of Representatives, Democrats have flipped control of the chamber and will see gains similar to the Republican Revolution in 1994, the post-Watergate election in 1974 and the Tea Party Wave in 2010. All elections are important, but this one was so dominant that it portends at reckoning in American politics. After each of the wave elections listed above, the losing party had to turn inward and examine itself to discern why the electorate rejected it so harshly. It is time for my Republican Party to carefully consider just those questions.
Opinion
Wyoming underwent its own reckoning in August with the primary election. Many incumbents were turned out in favor of new faces and new approaches. If you looked solely at the general election, it may appear at first glance that nothing has changed. Wyoming still has all Republicans in statewide offices, all Republicans in Congress and the Democratic Party only picked up a single house seat in the state Legislature. However, focusing on party identity obscures the real change that happened. That change occurred in the hearts and minds of the voters. There is no way to interpret the election results, both here in Wyoming and nationally, as anything other than a desire for a new direction in government.
That raises the question of what voters should expect from our new elected officials. Where should we focus to see the change we so clearly desire? Here in Wyoming, we should first look to see if our elected officials recognize the desire for a change in approach. Wyoming is a conservative state, and more fundamentally, we are pragmatic and respectful. Our elected officials should reflect this character. We should expect them to address real problems, receive input, and show each other and those they encounter in their duties the respect that they deserve. Our politics works better when everyone involved recognizes that they need help from those around them. Humility is the key to thoughtful governance.
We also should remember that results take time. Whether it be changes to the national economy or to our state regulations, if things are going to be done well, they are not going to be done overnight. Too often, we expect instant gratification, and this extends to politics, too. Good policy requires time for reflection, input and amendment. Complex problems seldom have simple solutions, which means that if we are to start meddling in our regulatory scheme or our government structure, we should be aware of those changes’ ripple effects. Changing something in one place may have impacts in entirely different areas, and we should expect our elected officials to do their best to anticipate and weigh those effects before taking action.
Perhaps most importantly, we must all recognize that no single person or election is going to save us. We hope that our elected officials will act wisely and will put good policy in place, but it is up to us to build the lives we want to live. Government plays a role in making that easier or harder, but the true questions of a meaningful life are not answered in the Legislature of our county government buildings. They are answered in our homes and in our own selves.
As we expect new approaches and changes in our political leadership, let us also seek to take up the same burden ourselves. We should seek to be part of the solution, not just aware of the problem. Seek out ways to serve, whether that be in formal roles or in your everyday life. Volunteer to help your neighbor and learn about the complexities of the issues you care about.
We need to hold our leaders accountable, but we should also recognize that they are human and learning in a difficult, fast-paced and stressful environment. They will make mistakes, but most important is whether they exhibit the traits important for true leadership: humility, desire for service and a willingness to learn. Their work is important, and some of it is urgent, but it is a process and we need to have the patience to recognize that the process takes time.
Above all, we must be part of the solution ourselves. Just as we have high expectations of our public officials, we must hold ourselves to the same standards. Our future is bright, as long as we choose it.
