Politics needs Olympic spirit

The recent Paris Olympic Games has reminded me that countries with political, ideological, cultural and religious differences were able to temporarily put these issues aside to congregate for fair and honest athletic competition.

Then I returned to the sad reality of the ongoing political chasm within the United States. Political races, especially presidential races, are supposed to be conducted on differing political and socioeconomic platforms. There should always be an implicit level of honor and mutual respect to simply “agree to disagree” on various issues.

With only a few months until November, the voting public needs for both sides to clearly present their vision of America going forward. For Republicans, they need to explain in detail how they will “Make America great again.” For Democrats, if “We don’t look back,” how exactly do we move forward?

First and foremost, we must remove all the negativity. It is simply disrespectful to label your political rivals as “nasty, dumb, corrupt and dishonest.” To continue along this path simply shows a lack of decorum and moral character.

Republicans and Democrats alike should remember that they are both auditioning for public-service jobs on behalf of the American people. I sincerely hope the Olympic spirit of peace, harmony and mutual respect can rub off within our domestic politics.