NPMA EVP Bob Rosenberg is flanked by political pundits Pat Buchanan and Donna Brazile at Legislative Day 2014.
We’re not supposed to talk about religion or politics at work, but we’re going to dip a bipartisan toe into politics for just a moment to discuss the lively debate that occurred at the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA’s) Legislative Day 2014, in Washington, D.C., in March.
No matter your politics — be they Republican, Democratic or Tea Party — a lively debate is always entertaining and often thought-provoking. Too often, however, debates disintegrate into a puddle of frustration, anger and poor behavior. It’s not often we get to watch a debate where not only do the two sides speak candidly, but also with a sense of humor that isn’t condescending or passive aggressive.
Behold, Donna Brazile, Democratic political strategist and syndicated columnist, and Pat Buchanan, one-time presidential candidate and a leading voice of populist conservatism. The two delivered a luncheon keynote presentation, sponsored by FMC, and it was a crowd-pleaser. The two sparring parties ribbed one another with a few soft-peddled barbs, then launchd into their opening speeches before debating heated topics ranging from immigration, to the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and the 2016 presidential election.
What was most striking about this debate — aside from being as entertaining as any TV show without sacrificing yuks for substance — was the good-natured way in which things went down. No raised voices or finger pointing. No backhanded insults. No total disregard for one another’s points.
During both speakers’ opening remarks, they displayed an obvious, easy-going respect for one another that transcends their politics. A theme emerged when Brazile, who spoke second, stepped up to the podium to introduce herself. That theme was “common ground” — and when the two began to spar that theme became more apparent.
“I don’t completely disagree with you, but …” was the way many of Brazile’s statements started. She’d discuss for a moment where she and Buchanan saw eye-to-eye before launching into her opposing views.
Likewise, Buchanan uttered “I don’t blame the president for …” several times, and he nodded in agreement more than once when Brazile was making a point.
The attempt to find common ground made for an exceptionally enjoyable lunchtime presentation. I’ve seen stand-up comics with a far worse laugh-per-minute batting average than these two speakers. Off the cuff, the two were always on their toes and ready for rebuttal in the most polite, sincere and often hilarious, way. It was clear the entire packed ballroom was having a blast listening to these two pros go at it.
When we find ourselves at odds with another over anything from politics to social issues to pop culture, it’s good to be reminded the best way to start any debate is by first finding common ground. It lessens the chance of a yelling match and, who knows, might even lead to a middle ground. pmp
You can reach Nepper at wnepper@northcoastmedia.net or 216-706-3775.
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