North Carolina’s image is a figment of Republicans’ imagination transposed into the minds of millions. HB2, the ersatz proof of our supposed character, sprang from a backroom deal cut with fringe fanatics. The state did not ask for it, and it did not like it. Citizens of this state maintain a Janus-faced identity with a warm, if differing, countenance on each side of the division.
We got our debased reputation from electoral maps distorted with devilish cynicism. Our policies shifted as radically as our districts. But the revolution ran against the desires of a centrist electorate. This is not speculation. Recent pieces by conservative and centrist commentators detail the enduring moderation of NC voters. Despite aggressively changing the state’s insider culture, Republicans have not reshaped grassroots dynamics. The Dixie Dynamo still wants to rumble forward on a balanced path.
Fortunately, a course correction finally lies within sight. The Democratic end of the pendulum stands poised to swing with force in a potential “Blue Wave.” It may even be possible for Democrats to retake the legislature, an outcome Republicans fought ferociously to render impossible. And a new blueness on Jones Street would inevitably rebalance our politics. NC policy has shifted so far rightward that even a strong left swing would end at the ideological midpoint.
Republicans have forced us on a harrowing, damaging journey from the middle ground. Minorities and children–the most vulnerable among us–suffered the most. Moderates and liberals have every reason to be angry, but they must look to their better angels for guidance. One hate-choked party inflicted damage enough. A new era should dawn with a generous tone.
On policy, that means nonpartisan redistricting. And political considerations weigh equally on the moral scale. Payback should not be under consideration. This state retains the capacity for progress despite everything Republicans have taken away. It deserves a government equal to its promise.
Alexander Jones is an original contributor to PoliticsNC.
While I do not entirely share the optimism of this post, I absolutely agree that “payback” is an awful idea. It is ethically wrong and in my opinion, politically stupid. If the Democrats gain seats, they must not repeat the sins and mistakes of the past, nor of the GOP. Otherwise, why should anyone bother to vote for them again?
It is also the obligation of every elected official to at least attempt to represent all of the people in his/her district. If democracy had a synonym, I think it would be “compromise” and we would all do well to remember that. I will probably have to tattoo it on my hand to remind me if and when the Democrats are in charge, so I do not underestimate the difficulty of doing it.
A lot of North Carolina problems have to do with neglect of rural counties, the quality of rural schools, and lack of rural jobs, much of which date back to the time of Democratic legislative control. This combined with some corruption has left a bad taste in voters minds. That combined that with Republican gerrymandered districts and large changes in population principally around already large urban areas have created two classes of citizens. One expects that many of these problems will resolve themselves after the next census. It is unfortunate that with such high in-migration the districts aren’t resized for population at least every 5 years rather than after each 10 year census. In any case the only solution now is to run citizens for office who are fairminded and reasonable people whether Independent, Republican, Libertarian or Democratic. I would hope that all those who run have reasonable competition so that we get the best individuals elected for our rapidly changing state with its ever-increasing inequities.
I second your sentiments. Well said.
North Carolina has never been a Deep South southern state. North Carolina has been a progressive state formerly known for excellent universities, being a beacon to industry and commerce and a hospitable people who welcome diversity and progress. The state has, for decades, been on the top 10 lists of attractive, affordable places for families. The Research Triangle is a model of a successful partnership between government and corporations.
Our government was hijacked in 2010 by radical elements of the right wing, and we have seen the deterioration of our schools; our reputation has been lambasted nationally and internationally for a series of unconstitutional, idiotic and counter-productive laws passed by a legislature completely out of touch with the people of this state. We were, for a time, the laughing stock of the nation and a late-night punch line.
North Carolina is best governed by pro-business, pro-environment, pro-education centrists. The Democratic Party does a better job of representing our people. The Republicans are too busy dividing our people, tearing down our institutions and regulating our bathrooms and our genitalia. We have been there. Let’s not do that anymore.