Nate Feltman: Politicians should follow examples set by Hoosiers

After the riots of last summer and, more recently, at our nation’s capital, there is fear among reasonable people that the American experiment in democracy is in danger. Both major parties are now dominated by extremists who seem to relish the polarization of America. Rather than working to find common ground, too many politicians opt to use identity politics and divisive rhetoric that demonizes their opponents and gains them media attention, power and fame.

These politicians personally capitalize on the very real challenges that exist today in America, including the widening income disparities, the rise of social media and decline of fact-based and unbiased news, unlimited money in politics coupled with the rise of special interest groups, the decline of civics education, and the loss of faith in our democratic institutions.

While efforts are underway by many concerned citizens and organizations to address some of the aforementioned problems, perhaps the most difficult challenge—and the one receiving the least amount of attention—is the failure of our leaders to govern responsibly and with integrity.

Hoosiers fortunately have great examples of elected leaders who understood that, with great power comes great responsibility. The responsibility to tell the truth, inspire and implement reforms that bring about positive results. Former Indianapolis Mayor and U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar arguably is the standard-bearer for Hoosiers in this regard. His mentorship and example of good governance inspired many, including former Gov. Mitch Daniels, who in turn helped to inspire current Gov. Eric Holcomb.

Lugar’s understanding of the difference between politicking and governing can be found in his farewell speech to his Senate colleagues in 2012. Lugar stated that taking a position on an issue is not the same as good governance. He noted that devotion to the party line, notoriety, raising money and blaming the other side for failure to advance one’s ideas is not governance. Rather, Lugar said, good governance requires adapting your position to changing circumstances and finding common ground with others who have a vision different from your own.

In the lead-up to the 2004 gubernatorial election, then-candidate Daniels told those assembled at the Indiana State Republican Convention that winning the election was not the point and that the campaign was not about party, power or politics but rather the chance to lead a comeback of all 6 million-plus Hoosiers. He explained that, if winning is your top priority, you will do anything to win. He added that winning is nothing unless it leads to real change and a better life for every single Hoosier. He closed by quoting his former boss, President Ronald Reagan, who he said often reminded his team that, “We have no enemies, only opponents.”

Holcomb in his re-election bid last year ran zero negative campaign ads targeting his opponent and instead focused on his achievements and positive vision for Indiana. And while he took a few arrows from his opponents regarding his handling of the pandemic, Hoosiers voted in historic numbers for Holcomb, affirming their approval of his balance between the need to protect Hoosiers’ health and their personal freedoms—an important reminder of the difference between politicking and governing.

Americans would be well-served if more elected officials followed the examples set by Lugar, Daniels and Holcomb. It’s time to demand more from our elected leaders. It’s time to demand that our elected leaders govern responsibly and cease the irresponsible and dangerous rhetoric that seeks to incite and divide us.•

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Feltman is CEO of IBJ Media and a shareholder in the company. To comment on this column, send email to nfeltman@ibj.com.