In these turbulent times of deep political division, the pervasive hate in our discourse can be disheartening.
However, as brothers serving in different political arenas — a Republican Kansas state representative and a Democratic Wichita City councilman — we unite today with a resolute voice to unequivocally reject political violence in all its forms.
The recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the attack on our democratic institutions during Jan. 6 starkly underscore why we must denounce these acts: Political violence is the ultimate threat to democracy.
Political violence transcends partisan lines and scars communities.
For instance, in 2017, Republican Congressman Steve Scalise fought for his life after being shot during a bipartisan baseball practice in Alexandria, Virginia — an event meant to foster unity and bipartisanship.
Similarly, on Jan. 8, 2011, Democratic Congresswoman Gabby Giffords was grievously wounded during a constituent meeting in Tucson, Arizona — an event meant to bridge the gap between elected officials and the people they serve.
Even closer to home, members of the Kansas House Republican Caucus received letters last year laced with a suspicious white substance, and Wichita City Council members routinely face threats, including a prosecution stemming from a threat against a former Democratic mayor.
When we allow political passions to justify violence, we undermine the foundation of our society — a foundation built on dialogue, debate, and voting. Those who resort to violence seek to silence opposing voices and override the will of the voters, thereby corroding the very principles upon which our democracy stands.
The idea of our form of government is people debate policies in public, and we rely on the wisdom of the people to guide us at the ballot box.
It is imperative to remember that those who hold differing political views are not our enemies. They are our fellow citizens, neighbors, and in our case, family members.
We both hold deep political beliefs from opposite ends of the spectrum, but we have learned how to passionately debate policies (just ask our mother) without viewing each other as enemies. Rather, we are brothers dedicated to the collective betterment of our communities.
Moving forward, we must make an effort to view each other as brothers and sisters, as fellow Americans.
This means actively listening to one another, recognizing that disagreement is inherent in democracy, and giving each other grace to hold and change our separate views. As leaders and citizens, it is our duty to lead by example, rejecting divisive rhetoric and encouraging constructive dialogue and policy debate.
Public forums, town halls, and community gatherings must serve as sanctuaries for open dialogue, free from the specter of violence. Ultimately, the ballot box — not violence — must determine the course of our government.
We urge everyone to reflect on the timeless wisdom of Matthew 12:25, which President Abraham Lincoln invoked during our nation’s darkest hours: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.”
One of our nation’s greatest strengths lies in our unity through diversity, in our ability to bridge divides and forge a path forward together.
We can, and must, do better. Please join us in prayer for our nation.
State Rep. Nick Hoheisel is a Republican representing the 97th House District; Wichita City Councilman Mike Hoheisel is a Democrat representing Council District 3. Both are from south Wichita.
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