What are the most important characteristics or traits that allow legislators to work effectively across the aisle?

ILLINOIS REP. TIM BUTLER | CLASS OF 2016

“Understanding there are differences not just in philosophy among legislators, but Differences in constituencies. The citizens of the district I represent have no greater or lesser voice than any other constituency, yet those groups of citizens may largely hold different views. We need to respect that and carry out our duties understanding that other legislators are representing their constituents the same as me.”

MINNESOTA REP. KURT DAUDT | CLASS OF 2011

“Empathy and grace are hugely important in building relationships with the other side. If you don’t have the ability to empathize with your colleagues on the other side, and see them as human beings that you happen to have strong disagreements with instead of outright political combatants, you’re not going to be able to form relationships with them. It’s also about having the grace and patience to set aside the partisan barbs that happen frequently at the legislature and not let those things impact your person-to-person relationships.”

INDIANA REP. PHIL GIAQUINTA | CLASS OF 2009

“You have to come to terms with the fact that compromise is a good thing and not a weakness. I also believe you have to make sure you’re always negotiating in good faith. If you develop a reputation of someone that’s difficult to work with, legislators across the aisle simply won’t want to engage you in productive dialogue.”

NORTH DAKOTA REP. SHANNON ROERS JONES | CLASS OF 2017

“Open-mindedness and a willingness to talk to people with whom you generally disagree. Too often, people get so set on the idea that they need to take a principled stand on issues that they fail to adequately understand the issue from their opponents’ perspective. Beyond that, viewing people with whom you disagree as opponents has the effect of turning issue-solving into a zero-sum game. Taking on issues with an open mind and an ability to seek out mutually beneficial solutions is much more important than just getting a ‘win’.”

MICHIGAN SEN. ARIC NESBITT | CLASS OF 2012

“A willingness to listen and treat issues individually. Both political parties philosophically disagree, but if individual members can put aside the tension on issues where they fundamentally disagree and be open to working on issues where agreement can be found, there are significant opportunities for bipartisan successes.”