Spencer Cox’s Crusade
The Republican governor thinks he can drain the bile from partisan combat. Trying to do it almost broke him.
TL;DR
- Utah Governor Spencer Cox suggested to President Biden that he pardon Donald Trump to de-escalate political tensions.
- Cox, a Republican who did not vote for Trump, believed prosecuting a former president would deepen the country's political crisis.
- Biden reportedly told Cox he had considered a pardon and would seriously consider the suggestion.
- Cox later endorsed Trump's candidacy, encouraging restraint and magnanimity, but Trump quickly reverted to divisive rhetoric.
- Cox's book, 'Off Ramp: How to Be a Peacemaker in an Age of Contempt,' explores these experiences and his broader philosophy on depolarizing politics.
- He identifies 'contempt' as the core problem in American politics, arguing that it's the conviction that those with differing views are beneath us.
- Cox's efforts to promote depolarization led to significant personal backlash, including estrangement from friends and family, and periods of despair.
- He uses his hometown of Fairview, Utah, as a model for community, strong institutions, and prioritizing collective obligations.
- Cox admits he is a 'hothead' and that practicing the principles of 'disagreeing better' is challenging, especially under public scrutiny.
- Despite the difficulties and personal cost, Cox remains hopeful that America's political culture is ready for a reset.