In the heart of Jackson County, where the vibrant tapestry of our community weaves together different perspectives, I find myself reflecting on the need for bipartisanship in both our local and national politics. As the Vice Chair of the Jackson County Legislature, recent criticisms have prompted me to address the rationale behind my decision to vote for Republican Jeanie Lauer as Chairwoman of the Legislature.
The landscape of American politics has undergone a seismic shift since the election of Donald Trump in 2016. The resulting polarization has led to a disconcerting trend where personal attacks take precedence over substantive policy discussions. In this challenging environment, the need for bipartisanship is not a mere preference but an essential pillar for effective governance.
My journey in the United States Marine Corps, spanning two decades, instilled in me the importance of service, collaboration, and a commitment to the common good. Ongoing education in the history of American politics during my military career revealed the profound impact of bipartisanship in driving some of the most significant racial, social, and economic advancements for Black Americans.
President Harry Truman’s appointment of centrist Republican Senator Harold Burton to the United States Supreme Court illustrates the power of bipartisanship in shaping landmark civil rights cases. Cases like Sweatt v. Painter and Shelley v. Kraemer reshaped the social and cultural fabric of public universities and neighborhoods, including in Kansas City, where racial covenants were prevalent due to the influence of real estate magnate J.C. Nichols.
One of the most significant legislative achievements, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, resulted from a bipartisan collaboration between Democratic Senator Mike Mansfield and Republican Senator Everett Dirksen. Their leadership and the support of 27 Republican Senators played a pivotal role in overcoming the longest filibuster in Senate history, leading to the passage of the Civil Rights Act.
In 2017, Republican Senator John McCain’s stance against repealing key components of former President Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act exemplifies the importance of working together for the benefit of all. His call to “trust each other” and “return to regular order” resonates with my decision to vote for Republican Jeanie Lauer for Chairwoman amidst the partisan challenges of 2023.
The 2023 county legislative year was marred by partisan isolationism and intraparty warfare, hindering the Legislature’s ability to effectively address the major issues facing the county. Recognizing the need for change, I voted for Lauer, not only as a change in leadership but as a commitment to operate in a bipartisan manner.
The polarized political environment in the country and its influence on Jackson County politics has led some to overlook recent history. While some may view Lauer’s presence as Chairwoman as unprecedented for a majority Democratic Legislature, it is not. Since 2013, two other Republicans, Greg Rounds, and Theresa Galvin, have served in the role, and both were nominated by Democrats – Dan Tarwater and Jalen Anderson.
During this period, the Legislature benefited from other black public servants, including community icon Bishop James D. Tindall and attorney Ronald Finley. Both Tindall and Finley supported the nominations of Republicans as Chair of the Legislature. In 2013, 2019, and 2020. They neither voted against the Republican nominee nor provided Democratic nominations for Chair. In those years, same as 2024, Democrats enjoyed a seven-member majority in the Legislature.
These examples are not meant to besmirch the legacy of these public servants; quite the contrary. It is merely to remind the public that there was a time in recent history when even our local politics wasn’t as partisan as it is today and that Black Democrats demonstrated a willingness to collaborate with White Republicans. This is the type of leadership that is needed now more than ever.
My role as a legislator is not to agree with members of the governing body solely based on shared racial identity or political party but to collaborate with all members for the greater good of the county. But let me be clear: My commitment to the Black community transcends public service—it is deeply personal. I am a girl from the Southside of Chicago, a mother who has raised Black babies, and a woman who has navigated the challenges of serving in the most elite branch of the military as a minority. I intimately understand the challenges our community faces and I will continue to work diligently towards bettering those conditions.
Criticism is inevitable, but character assassinations are counterproductive. I choose to approach my position in public service and my role in the community with an open heart, a listening ear, and a desire to understand. Disagreements on votes should not derail our focus on working together to address critical issues such as violent crime, affordable housing, homelessness, and re-entry for the formerly incarcerated.
The Jackson County Legislature possesses the capacity to make significant strides on these issues, and my commitment remains steadfast. I am enthusiastic about working with fellow legislators to prioritize the community’s needs over partisan battles. By embracing our diverse perspectives and learning from historical examples, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all in Jackson County, especially the black community.
100% AGREE! When they go low, we go high!
I agree with your assessment of the cause (s) of some of the issues that have caused the problems we are all burdened with. I appreciate your solution oriented analysis and I agree that our focus should be in working together to come up with solutions that affect and impact the lives of all of us as well as generations yet unborn!!. Count me in. Not sure what I can do, but I’m willing to try. You are absolutely correct. Without Republican support we possibly would not have gotten the Civil Rights Legislation passed into law. I am a member of what became known as the “Medicaid 23”. My organization is grass roots and we are directly involved with the issues that impact the City and the County!! Where as it should not matter, I am an elder, 85 years of age. I have seen a lot, and I have some wisdom as to how things have come to be where they are in Kansas City, Mo, and Jackson county!! Dangerous, political games being played with total disregard for human rights that are universal. The struggle is between right and wrong!! Truth and lies! Human Right # 22 and 25.