Race relations, riots, compassion — and Utah politics
The protests, both peaceful and violent, along with demonstrations of compassion and government reactions, will influence elections and politics. With appropriate sensitivity, hopefully, we explore.
By Frank Pignanelli & LaVarr Webb
After the record-setting heat and boiling emotions of last week, cooler temperatures are a welcome relief on all fronts. But the protests, both peaceful and violent, along with demonstrations of compassion and government reactions, will influence elections and politics. With appropriate sensitivity, hopefully, we explore.
Hundreds of American cities experienced violent protests after the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers. How will the responses by President Donald Trump, Congress, governors and city officials impact national politics?
Pignanelli: “We are one American family … united in common values, belief in equality under the law, basic respect for public order, and the right of peaceful protest.” — Former President Barack Obama
A shiny silver lining does glow in these dark clouds dominating our horizon. The disgust and condemnation of the circumstances surrounding Mr. Floyd’s torture and death was absolute and universal. Police officers were clearly outraged. This is a hallmark of our national character of which we should be proud.
Americans grasp this comprehensive condemnation by all demographic elements and sympathize with public statements demanding change and action. But they do not understand if everyone agrees, why is violence and vandalism occurring? These senseless actions, and the perceived confused response by some officials, is creating a sense of insecurity. In such chaos Trump thrives. Further, he understands the power of symbols and will use them repeatedly to communicate strength and willingness to provide protection, especially to solidify his base.
Our political history is replete with examples of leaders using tough talk, and sometimes action, to bolster their campaign messaging (i.e. Richard Nixon in 1968) This is especially powerful when the episodes of violence are frequent, ubiquitous and close to home (as are the current protests). So, a range of candidates will reuse the traditional stands against the dangerous elements plaguing the streets.
But there is a new symbol developing — that all politicos must understand. The recurring image of a well-armed policeman or guardsman “taking a knee” with protesters instantaneously demonstrates both strength and compassion. This is another wonderful silver lining.
Webb: The death of George Floyd is a tragedy and should prompt introspection and a commitment in all of us to improve and treat all people with love and equality.
From a purely political perspective, this whole matter hardens attitudes and positions and cuts both ways. As usual in this crazy political environment it also becomes all about Trump. His hard positions on rioting and violence infuriates liberals in Congress and the big cities.
But in the heartland, in the smaller communities across America, ordinary people watching the cities in flames and police officers being attacked with bricks and bottles are horrified by what appears to be anarchy. Trump is their hero.
While all reasonable Americans want justice for George Floyd and want to improve race relations, the riots and violence haven’t united America, but have furthered the divide. Politicians will follow their constituents.
Personally, I am repulsed by the treatment and death of George Floyd, as I am by all such horrific incidents. The resulting protests have helped me understand the pain and depth of feeling among black Americans and other minority groups. I know I am not as empathetic and understanding as I should be. I can listen more and be more committed to civility, inclusion and racial harmony.
I reject the notion, however, that we are a racist country. I do not agree that systemic racism proliferates in our law enforcement communities. Looking back at my nearly 70 years of life, I am certain we have made dramatic progress in our communities our state and our country on race relations. In fact, I believe less racism exists today than ever before. There is more opportunity and more tolerance. But we can certainly do better, and I personally commit to do so.
Salt Lake City also suffered violence, flames, vandalism and injuries. But there were also acts of understanding and compassion. How will these incidents affect elections and the relationships between state and local officials?
Pignanelli: A week ago, thousands of Utah witnessed on live television violence and vandalism. Immediately after watching a police car set on fire, many assumed a response by authorities. Instead, clearly restrained law-enforcement was on display. Because Salt Lake is the political, religious, cultural and economic “capital” of Utah, state officials will focus on how the city responds to similar demonstrations.
Webb: Cooperation and collaboration among leaders and different levels of government was excellent. Police conduct, overall, was outstanding. Second-guessers will find things to complain about but, given the circumstances, we ought to say thanks to all involved.
Will the interaction of police with people of color, and any resulting public reactions, become a permanent issue for politicians?
Pignanelli: Yes. Intense media exposure, combined with the emotions underlying protests, creates a political dynamic at every level of our democracy.
Webb: The blemishes of societal race relations are not going away soon and are incredibly complex and difficult to solve. I’ve been touched by the outpouring of positive and sensitive statements from church leaders, businesses, nonprofits and all sorts of other institutions. Many of us are committed to do better. That’s a start.