Lisa Everett

Submitted photo

It’s time for Republicans and Democrats alike to take the temperature down. Right now, both parties are locked in a cycle of blame, pointing fingers at the other side for the escalating rhetoric we see in the media, on social media platforms and even around our own dinner tables.

This environment of hostility is being fueled from all directions, and it will only stop if each of us makes a conscious decision to step back.

The tragic loss of Charlie Kirk has forced many to reflect on the tone of our national discourse. To the surprise of some, figures like Bernie Sanders and John Fetterman offered heartfelt words in his memory, asking the public to allow conservatives space to grieve.

Locally, the co-chair of the Northwest Valley chapter of Indivisible, Brent Peak, called on members not to protest the memorial, and several planned protests were canceled out of respect.

These gestures should remind us that humanity is not limited by party lines. Yet many Republicans continue to claim that Democrats celebrated Charlie Kirk’s death. Some did, but the vast majority did not. When we make sweeping generalizations, we become part of the very problem we condemn.

I write this as a proud Trump supporter who serves on the boards of three Republican organizations. I understand the passion of our movement, but I also see how easily passion can turn into damaging rhetoric. Blanket statements dehumanize our fellow citizens and prevent us from seeing areas of agreement.

Both sides must own their role in this toxic environment. Both sides must think before they speak. And both sides must remember that the foundation of our nation is not built on tearing each other apart, but on finding common ground. We are all Americans first. It’s time we start acting like it.

Editor’s note: Lisa Everett is chair of the Arizona LD29 Republicans. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.