Podcast Summary: "Disagreeing Better with Utah Governor Spencer Cox"

Episode Details:

• Title: Disagreeing Better with Utah Governor Spencer Cox
• Host: Sharon McMahon
• Release Date: September 9, 2024
• Platform: Acast

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, host Sharon McMahon sits down with Utah Governor Spencer Cox to explore themes of governance, polarization, and the importance of constructive disagreement in politics. The conversation delves into Governor Cox’s personal journey, his initiatives to foster bipartisan cooperation, and his perspectives on current political dynamics.

Governor Spencer Cox's Path to Leadership

[02:21] Spencer Cox: "I grew up in a very small town in the middle of Utah in the mountains, a town of 1,200 people... I've been back ... I loved giving back."

Governor Cox begins by sharing his humble beginnings in a small Utah town, highlighting his family's deep roots and his initial reluctance to pursue a political career. His entry into public service was serendipitous, starting with an appointment to the city council. Cox emphasizes the value of grassroots governance, stating, "the best legislators, the best members of Congress I know all served on a city council or as a mayor." He underscores the profound impact of local governance, where decisions have immediate and tangible effects on the community.

The Importance of Local Government Experience

Cox reflects on his tenure in various local government roles, including mayor and county commissioner, explaining how these positions provide invaluable insights into the needs and concerns of everyday citizens. He recounts the challenges of limited resources and the direct accountability to constituents, which foster a strong connection between leaders and the people they serve.

[05:46] Sharon McMahon: "On the city council, you don't got a whole office... you're in there for 45 minutes because somebody had a complaint."

This hands-on experience in local governance shapes Cox’s approach to leadership, instilling a sense of responsibility and immediacy that larger political roles often lack. He advocates for aspiring politicians to gain experience at the local level to better understand and serve their communities.

Navigating Political Polarization and Promoting Constructive Disagreement

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the increasing polarization in American politics and Governor Cox’s initiative, Disagreeing Better. Appointed as the chair of the National Governors Association, Cox used his platform to address the deepening divides and promote strategies for more effective and respectful political discourse.

[07:14] Sharon McMahon: "It's such a great way to look at the direct impact that your actions as a leader have."

Governor Cox acknowledges the prevalent cynicism towards politicians, explaining, "I believe that we have become a little too cynical... knowing politicians as real human beings." He emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal connections and understanding the humanity behind political roles to mitigate disdain and foster cooperation.

Initiative: Disagreeing Better

Governor Cox elaborates on the Disagreeing Better initiative, inspired by historical bipartisan collaboration exemplified by figures like Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neill. The initiative seeks to provide governors with tools and strategies to engage in respectful disagreement without descending into antagonism.

[22:29] Spencer Cox: "We can't do any of the most important things in our country if we all hate each other."

Disagreeing Better is rooted in fostering environments where diverse opinions are valued and constructive dialogue is encouraged. Cox highlights methods such as spending time with those who hold different views, engaging in public service, and refining communication techniques to better understand and articulate differing perspectives.

Endorsement of Donald Trump and Handling Constituent Concerns

A pivotal moment in the conversation addresses Governor Cox’s public endorsement of Donald Trump amid divisive political climates. Cox explains his rationale and the personal challenges associated with this decision.

[35:39] Sharon McMahon: "Why did you decide to make that public? And what would you say to that person?"

[36:12] Spencer Cox: "I think my party makes the same mistake saying anyone that supports Kamala Harris or Joe Biden is an evil, terrible, awful human being."

Cox discusses the delicate balance between party loyalty and personal conviction, admitting the complexity of supporting a polarizing figure while striving to bridge partisan gaps. He advocates for understanding the motivations behind supporters’ choices and underscores the necessity of treating all constituents with dignity, regardless of political alignment.

Hope and Moving Forward

In the concluding segments, Governor Cox shares his outlook on fostering hope through action and community engagement. He rejects the notion of waiting passively for positive change, instead promoting proactive efforts to build bridges and serve the community.

[44:36] Spencer Cox: "Hope is action... What gives me hope is when I see people having these conversations."

Cox highlights Utah’s strong culture of service and volunteerism as sources of optimism. He encourages finding common ground through service-oriented activities and maintaining open, respectful dialogues with those holding different viewpoints.

[47:34] Sharon McMahon: "Your listeners embody that ethos."

Governor Cox’s final remarks reinforce the podcast’s central message: active participation and respectful disagreement are essential for a healthy, functioning democracy.

Conclusion

This episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting offers a profound exploration of political leadership, the challenges of polarization, and the transformative power of constructive disagreement. Governor Spencer Cox’s insights provide listeners with a roadmap for fostering unity and understanding in a divided political landscape, emphasizing that hope and progress are achievable through deliberate and respectful actions.

Notable Quotes

• Spencer Cox [05:46]: "My dad was on the city council when I was a kid, and he said, we have a big legal problem, and we were hoping you could do some free legal work for us because we can't afford an attorney."

• Spencer Cox [07:14]: "Instead of just thinking about a $29 billion budget, I think about the widow Madsen. I grew up with her daughter. I knew that family. Is she going to be okay with what I did today?"

• Spencer Cox [22:29]: "We can't do any of the most important things in our country if we all hate each other and if we have dysfunctional institutions."

• Spencer Cox [35:39]: "I think we make a mistake saying that everybody that votes for Donald Trump is an evil, terrible human being."

• Spencer Cox [44:36]: "Hope is action. What gives me hope is when I see people having these conversations, when I see people actually realizing that they don't have to be part of tearing down, they don't have to be part of destroying."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Governor Spencer Cox’s conversation with Sharon McMahon, highlighting key themes and memorable insights that encourage listeners to engage thoughtfully and respectfully in the political discourse.