Bridging the Divide: Red Perspective

“I have never believed in having permanent enemies”
President Trump, May 13, 2025 (at 3:42 in this video)

As I sat down to write this, I was distracted by the latest news. 

May 18th

• Pope Leo inaugurated.

• Tornados kill 28 in KY, MO, and VA.

• Former President Joe Biden announces stage 4 cancer.

• Anti-natalist terrorist killed by own bomb at fertility clinic; 4 injured.

May 17th

• Mexican tall ship hits Brooklyn Bridge; 2 dead, 20 injured.

• Trump returns from Middle East tour: business deals, Syria sanctions lifted, royal pageantry.

May 16th

• Hur tapes leaked to Axios.

• Ten inmates escape New Orleans jail.

• Polis signs Kelly Loving Act, protecting transgender rights.

• James Comey posts cryptic “86 47” shell message.

So much complex news - in just three days - feels overwhelming. It’s tempting to retract into likeminded groups and tune out disagreement. Yet, common ground remains: we grieve for lives lost. We hope for healing for President Biden. We reject the anti-natalists’ idea that life is solely suffering. 

Maybe you, like me, ponder whether the new American pope has to file taxes, and what the IRS would do if he erred.

Of course, we may not agree on everything, including those Hur tapes, James Comey’s message, the Kelly Loving Act, or President Trump. 

His statement about not having permanent enemies is provocative, given his frequently abrasive demeanor, thus perfect for debate.

In college, I loved informal debates about current events and political commentary. Now, as a Braver Angels debate chair, I help create that same spirit of open, respectful discussion. Our debates aren’t about winning-they’re about listening, connecting and deepening understanding. Everyone is welcome, whether you want to speak, ask questions or simply listen.

Interested? Check out the debates we’re co-hosting with Reclaiming Civility this summer:

June 21: Public schools should prioritize parental input over state mandates when teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation.

July 19: Colorado’s gun control laws unfairly infringe on personal freedoms.

August 16: The First Amendment correctly prioritizes freedom of religion over freedom from religion.

Each debate is paired with a morning skills workshop and lunch.  Learn more

We hope you join us!

PS: Here’s President Trump’s speech in Riyadh. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this speech and any of the linked articles, regardless of your political leaning - email me at sbrownrigg@braverangels.org.