Of Politics, Consensus and Quarterbacks

by J. Evert Jones and Olivia Rubio

February 22, 2013

The following was submitted to the Los Angeles Times in response to James Rainey’s February 22 article: Garcetti Role in Budget Fixes is Disputed.

The true essence of politics is conciliation.  The multiple parties, the multiple voices in our political system reflects this essence, as our nation was founded on dissent. The struggle to navigate the best course for our nation, our state and our community lies in the acceptance that diverse opinions exist that are equally valid, equally compelling, equally deserving of consideration.

Eric Garcetti should be praised for his willingness to seek consensus, especially in the face of heated dissent.  A public official should never shrink from the public whom s/he represents, but keep them engaged in dialogue—this is part and parcel of our political process.  Labeling Mr. Garcetti as a “conciliator” as though it were a pejorative is a great disservice to the people of Los Angeles.

Trumpeting “fiscal hard-liners” as Mr. Rainey suggests in his article, is nothing more than embracing the trivial platitudes of Monday morning quarterbacks.  It’s easy to call the play the day after or shout criticism from the sidelines, but another thing entirely to be on the field in the thick of the game.  As Mr. Rainey notes in his article, Mr. Garcetti is unafraid to face and defend his decisions for our city, despite even vehement disagreement. 

A quote attributed to the French philosopher Voltaire sums up his philosophy: “I may disagree with what you’re saying, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”  A conciliator understands this, and Los Angeles needs a conciliator right now; someone with a keen eye for the future, yet grounded by the realities set for today.  This is the true essence of politics, and of an effective leader.