Let me express my appreciation for [Hopkinton Republican Town Committee chair] Jim Mirabile’s suggestion that those of us from different political perspectives meet to foster positive dialogue and mutual respect. As Hopkinton residents know, I am always happy to meet and engage in productive conversations with residents where they share their views, regardless of their party enrollment or issue. I let Jim know that I am happy to meet for coffee with a bipartisan group of residents, or even with his committee.

There is no place for violence in the American public square. In a free and open society that values free speech and the rule of law, everyone should voice their opinion without an ugly descent to violence. Violence against anyone — regardless of their opinions — should not be tolerated by any political party in America. The tragic and senseless killing of a young conservative in Utah and the tragic and senseless killing of a progressive speaker of the Minnesota House are attacks on our democracy and American values.

While I embrace local dialogue, I would however be remiss in not reflecting on how we got here — and conservatives should examine that as well. Leadership starts at the top and sets a tone for the country. It does not serve the country to have bullying, threats, derogatory references and name-calling coming out of the oval office.

I proudly served Republican President George W. Bush’s administration at Peace Corps for seven-plus years. I didn’t agree with some policies, but George Bush modeled exemplary behavior as president and reminded us in 2017 that leadership comes from the top and that “bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone and provides permission for cruelty, bigotry and hate.”

So yes, absolutely, let’s meet locally and see what we can do to keep our political discourse civil. Support your issues and values and enthusiastically promote your party, but do so with respect and dignity for all.

Perhaps we can even model behavior for our national leaders! I call on national Democratic leaders to be mindful in this tense climate to refrain from caustic commentary. I ask local Republicans to do the same with their leaders, especially as Republicans control all three branches of the federal government and set the current framework, tenor and tone of our national debate.

— State Rep. James Arena-DeRosa

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