Arizona’s Surprising Transformation: Embrace the Unexpected

City Hall serves as the stage for addressing daily challenges and debating visions for the community’s future. Mayors emphasize that constructive conversations, even with those who hold differing opinions, are vital for progress. While Council meetings follow specific decorum to maintain fairness, everyday disagreements often unfold without such structure, leading to tension in casual settings like family gatherings and grocery lines.

Recent findings from a Pew Research Study highlight the strain of political discussion, with over 65% of Americans feeling drained by political discourse, and 55% expressing feelings of anger.

The current political climate often rewards negativity and sensationalism, with provocative statements and personal attacks grabbing headlines. This trend distracts from meaningful governance and erodes essential community relationships.

However, a shift is possible. Individuals can choose to rise above hostility, seek out understanding, and prioritize shared values. More unites us than divides us; many agree on issues like increasing teacher pay or supporting Social Security. The call for compromise among leaders resonates with constituents across the political spectrum.

Cities must operate efficiently, transcending party lines, as critical services like public safety and infrastructure remain essential to all. As the adage goes, “There’s no such thing as a Democratic or Republican pothole.” Collaborative efforts among elected officials are crucial for tackling regional challenges such as transportation, affordable housing, and homelessness.

To address these challenges, the initiative Disagree Better Arizona has been launched. Inspired by the 2023 National Governors Association Initiative, it offers a free online toolkit aimed at promoting civility and constructive dialogue throughout Arizona as the presidential election approaches.

The goal of Disagree Better Arizona is not to compromise one’s values or overlook significant issues. Rather, it seeks to cultivate a culture of respect, active listening, and productive conversations that can unite differing perspectives. Failing to remember the art of agreeing to disagree risks far more than electoral outcomes.

This moment presents a unique opportunity to reshape political engagement for the betterment of society and future generations. By collectively committing to better disagreements, Arizona can foster a more inclusive environment that supports all its residents. For those interested, resources and upcoming events can be accessed at disagreebetteraz.com.

Corey Woods is the Mayor of Tempe, and John Giles is the Mayor of Mesa.