As this editorial goes to print, the election is over, but the bruises left by this campaign cycle may take a while to heal. In recent years, political discourse has become more polarized, combative, and frankly, uncivil. The past month has been filled with a relentless stream of negative ads, mailers, and disparaging statements—each aimed not at the issues, but at tearing down opponents as “dangerous radicals.” Campaigners have resorted to spreading fake websites, using unflattering nicknames, and making personal attacks, leaving little room for productive conversation about the actual needs of our communities and nation.

This decline in decorum wasn’t always the norm. Back in 2008, during a tense moment in his campaign, Republican nominee John McCain corrected a supporter who disparaged then-Senator Barack Obama, calling him “an Arab” in a derogatory tone. McCain took the microphone and defended Obama, calling him “a decent family man” with different ideas. It was a remarkable act of respect and civility that reminded us all that political rivals can disagree without dehumanizing each other.

Today, that sense of decency seems like a relic. Rather than focusing on policy differences, campaigns are increasingly driven by a “win at any cost” mentality that has consequences beyond the ballot box. When candidates allow—or even encourage—insults, misleading narratives, and fear-mongering, they undermine public trust in the political process itself. This strategy might energize a base, but it also alienates moderate voters and breeds cynicism in younger generations watching from the sidelines.

Restoring civility to politics won’t happen overnight, but it’s essential. Candidates and their supporters can start by pledging to campaign on the strength of their ideas rather than the perceived weaknesses of their opponents. If we continue down this path, focusing more on tearing each other down than building up our communities, we risk eroding the very democratic values we claim to uphold. Political rivalry doesn’t need to be personal animosity. We need leaders who understand the difference, and we need voters who demand it.