Why healing must begin in our communities
The Shift in Politics
Politics has often been called a bloodsport. Candidates must draw sharp distinctions and defend their vision. But over the past 30 years, something deeper has changed—we’ve lost the ability to compete and then come together. Too often, we label each other as enemies, split into tribes, and forget our shared values in this great American experiment.
This cancer is no longer confined to Washington—it metastasizes through state, county, and even local politics. It divides neighbors, friends, and families.
Lessons from the Past
I remember watching Senator Orrin Hatch and Senator Ted Kennedy—two men as opposite politically as you could imagine. Yet they respected one another, worked together, and passed legislation stronger than either could alone. President Reagan and Speaker Tip O’Neill did the same. They fought hard during the day, but they still respected each other and found common ground. That spirit is what we have lost—and what we must find again.
Call for Respect
In this race for Mayor, I disagree with my opponent’s approach. I believe it is not best for Coalville, and I am direct in my criticism. But I do not question her love for our town, and I respect it. I hope to work with her in the future for the good of this valley we share.
We must reject the temptation to villainize. We can debate forcefully and advocate passionately—but at the end of the day, we must remember that our differences make us stronger. They contribute to this tapestry that is America.
Healing from the Ground Up
If we hope to heal, we cannot rely on national parties or leaders. Anger is too profitable in the 24/7 news 
cycle. Controversy fuels ambition and power. Healing will not come from the top down, it must begin with us, in our community, and in thousands of communities across America. We must demand better, we must reject this cancer and deny it the opportunity to take hold in our community. We must lead.
Prior generations have faced existential threats, both from within and without. Those generations, in their dark times, found ways to come together and usher our nation to something bigger, something better. This is our generation’s crisis, and if we are to heal, if we are to rise and meet this moment, it must begin here.
It must begin with us.
Rory Swensen
Candidate for Mayor of Coalville
Resident, Neighbor, and Friend