Crossing the Divide
Playing Nice Isn't Always a Natural Instinct()
January 26, 2007 With the shift of power in Congress, both political parties have talked about the importance of reaching across the aisle and working together. But research indicates that playing nice isn't always in our nature.
A Time When Partisanship Didn't Mean Enmity()
January 26, 2007 In the Washington of the 1950s, the families of political rivals formed bonds. In that time, political goodwill wasn't as rare as it is today. Then again, in the post-war days lawmakers had seen real enemies.
Building Bipartisanship? Not Limbaugh's Problem()
January 25, 2007 As many in America focus on political cooperation, radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh continues to talk tough and take unyielding conservative stands. He has no interest in forging consensus — and good reasons not to do so.
Brothers Talk Across Political Fault Line()
January 24, 2007 Family members often share values and politics — but not always. For some, the nation's political divide is deeply personal. Brian Mann comes from one such family. He describes how he and his brother have agreed to try to bridge the gap.
A Racial Convergence, via Religion()
January 24, 2007 Two once-vibrant Lutheran churches — one white, one black — fell on hard times in Evansville, Ind. Church staff are now experimenting with joint services and activities. There's even talk of a merger.
State of the Union Response: A Brief History ()
January 23, 2007 Sen. Jim Webb of Virginia will deliver the Democratic response to President Bush's State of the Union address. History shows how current events have dictated the tone of the response over the years.
Liberal and Conservatives, In the House()
January 22, 2007 As part of our Crossing the Divide series, Melissa Block brings together the far left and the far right for a conversation with members of Congress Carol Shea-Porter and Bill Sali. Shea-Porter is a liberal Democrat from New Hampshire. Sali is a conservative Republican from Idaho.
'California Way' Provides Model for Bipartisanship()
January 22, 2007 "The California Way" is what Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger calls the bipartisan cooperation that led to a productive year of groundbreaking legislation and an on-time budget. Schwarzenegger said the approach should be a model for the nation. But how deep is this new cooperation?
Poll Shows Public Wants Compromise... Up to a Point()
January 22, 2007 Overwhelmingly, Americans see the country as divided, and value political leaders who try to bridge the gap. But the public also finds compromise much tougher on the toughest issues of the day, according to a poll by the Pew Research Center.
Political Compromise Prized, But Is It Attainable?()
January 22, 2007 A large majority of the U.S. public thinks the country is more politically polarized than in the past, and an even greater number expresses a strong desire for political compromise, according to a new survey by the Pew Research Center.
