Former Louisiana governor John Bel Edwards shared insights on political partisanship and the importance of collaboration at a recent Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics forum.
Moderated by Grisella M. Martinez, the discussion focused on overcoming ideological divides and the differences between state and national politics. Edwards, a Democrat governor in a traditionally red state, highlighted the challenges he faced upon taking office, including a significant fiscal deficit and a Republican-led state legislature opposed to raising revenue.
Despite these obstacles, Edwards emphasized the value of building personal relationships with legislative officials to achieve common goals. He acknowledged the need for compromise and expressed gratitude for the willingness of Republican leadership to work together.
In discussing national politics, Edwards contrasted the role of governors with that of federal politicians, noting the greater ease with which governors can govern due to the direct accountability they have to their constituents. He criticized Congress for prioritizing partisan victories over effective governance.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Edwards emphasized the importance of setting aside personal differences for the greater good of governance. He recounted a positive interaction with then-President Donald Trump following the 2019 Louisiana gubernatorial election, highlighting the need for cooperation in times of crisis.
As the country prepares for the upcoming November presidential elections, Edwards stressed the need for a season of governing between elections, where politicians prioritize effective leadership over partisan bickering. He called for a more collaborative approach to politics in order to address the pressing issues facing the nation.