Today’s post comes from Leigh Ann Pusey, president and CEO of the American Insurance Association and the Vice Chairman of the Bryce Harlow Foundation.
One can’t open a newspaper, watch television or scan social media without being overwhelmed by the partisan tone which has engulfed seemingly every public policy debate in Washington. Whether it’s healthcare or immigration, sequestration or tax reform; it appears as if all public policy matters have been classified as either liberal or conservative, thus dooming them to partisan gridlock. In reality, those of us working in government relations should recognize that public policy outcomes must always be directed toward the greater good. For the legislation we often seek to develop affects real working people each and every day.
The challenges currently facing our country and this Congress are complex and go beyond simple partisan talking points. As public policy advocates, our commitment must be to advance workable solutions which transcend the all too prevalent political tone in our society. We must champion the core pillars of our profession to build coalitions and unite diverse voices to help solve these pressing challenges.
When Bryce Harlow received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1981, it was for, “A life spent reconciling divergent interests, serving high moral principles, and channeling the forces of public policy toward the public good.” We must follow his example and commitment to service. The issues our country faces are too great to be eternally mired by political disagreement. They represent an opportunity to serve our nation by advancing solutions that truly benefit the greater good.
