The events of Wednesday’s riots and siege of the U.S. Capitol are rooted in a polarization of political beliefs that have been growing for years. While we know that the mayhem and violence were the actions of extremists who remain in the minority, this attack on our democracy was fueled by a distrust – an increasing hate – for the “other side” that has become more and more the norm. And the “other side” includes both political parties.

When did we reach the notion that someone’s political affiliation completely defines them? When did we come to believe that political differences are insurmountable? When did our decision to like, respect and work with people only be considered if they were politically “one of us”?  

History has shown that when drastic, extreme and violent events occur, things can change. But, as Henry David Thoreau said, “Things do not change. We change.” 

And so that is what we choose to do, and what we ask everyone in Chester County to do: Change our focus away from who’s right and who’s wrong; who wins and who loses. Work towards common, collective goals that benefit us all.

We’re not naïve. We know that politics is woven into many aspects of our lives. We have different political affiliations, and differences can be good, but only when it comes with a respect for other’s opinions and beliefs, not disdain; not distrust; not hate. 

Commissioners before us worked together to serve the citizens of Chester County, and we have been doing, and will continue to do the same. Do the three of us have our differences? Of course.

But we also seek a commonality in our values and believe that our differences can refine us and keep us in check. That’s how democracy is supposed to work, how it can work, and how we believe it has benefited – and will continue to benefit – all of us in Chester County.   

Let’s get back to a world where we can live and talk our politics with each other over a cup of coffee or a beer – respecting our differences and ideologies, and remaining friends. It is possible. If we do it, others could very well follow.

Chester County Commissioners 

Marian Moskowitz

Josh Maxwell

Michelle Kichline