UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA TUCSON — As the 2024 election approaches, political tensions remain high, as do many Americans’ blood pressure.
But former White House staffers Johanna Maska and Sean Spicer are calling for a different approach, one rooted in civility and open dialogue.
The two appeared together at a University of Arizona event, the Museum of Democracy Dialogue Series sponsored by the UofA Freedom Center, where they shared the stage to discuss the importance of bridging political divides.
Masuka, who served as President Barack Obama’s press promotion director, emphasized the need for voters to respect the office of the president, no matter who wins.
“We need to respect the office,” she said, noting that after the election, the country needs to come together to address the challenges.
Masuka added that while voters are passionate, it is important to recognize that elections are not just about individual candidates.
“Once the election is over, we must come together to make that future a reality,” she said.
Spicer, who served as White House press secretary under former President Donald Trump, echoed Muska’s sentiments. He noted that although political differences exist, it is important to listen to opposing views.
He said it was important to “actively listen to the other person’s point of view,” especially in countries where it was “50-50 at best.”
Spicer acknowledged America’s polarization and advised people to “respect that there is another side that believes[the opposite].”
Both speakers emphasized the dangers of division. Masuka observed that families are increasingly divided over politics, with some families avoiding the topic altogether.
“More people are getting divorced because of politics. We’re losing our bonds as families. We’re losing what unites us as a nation.”
Spicer offered similar advice for navigating political arguments, especially at family gatherings like Thanksgiving.
“You should know when to say it,” he advised, suggesting that you should recognize when a conversation is getting too tense.
The event caught the attention of students like Bella Knaggs, a journalism major at the University of Arizona.
Knaggs appreciated the opportunity to hear different perspectives, noting that events like this help “get as many voters in the room as possible when the conversation is happening.”
As the election approaches, both Mr. Masuka and Mr. Spicer urged voters to stay engaged.
“Your vote matters,” Masuka said, reminding attendees that elections have lasting effects.
Spicer also emphasized the importance of participating, saying, “It’s hard to complain if you don’t play.”
Amid heightened political tensions, both speakers emphasized the need for open dialogue, understanding and respect as the nation prepares to make important decisions in November.
