****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
For the record, I have never used a political party as a basis for my vote. My decisions are always based upon the policies and beliefs of the candidate, not on party affiliation. I employed this same outlook while reading and reviewing Jason Altmire’s “Dead Center.”The book addresses the current polarization of political parties in America, an issue that is apparently neglected as citizens’ approval of the U.S. Congress is down to single digits. Mr. Altmire’s book reveals that approximately 20% of Americans fall on the extreme left or right of the political line, while most people gravitate toward the center and would like to see more compromise between parties, even if that meant the bills they supported were watered down in order to achieve that goal.In the first part of the book, Mr. Altmire relates his experiences while serving as a representative in the U.S. Congress, relating the challenges experienced by a “centrist.” The author ran in a contested region, and felt his moderate views aided his election and subsequent reelections. He then follows that with his thoughts and suggestions on how America could institute ideas that could help ease the polarization we currently experience. Mr. Altmire spares neither party, and readers not wishing to approach this book with an open mind may find some sections disturbing. Some may take issue with the candor expressed when relating stories of the Democrats’ political pressure he experienced choosing not to toe the party line (Mr. Altmire felt he needed to represent his district). Others may not like his criticisms of Republicans in some of the situations described in the book. At these times, it is important to remember that a centrist will not vote consistently with a particular political party, and as such, Mr. Altmire’s views will reflect that philosophy.Some may question why the book states that a minority of the U.S. citizens appear to control our elections, resulting in congressional representatives that lean heavily to the far right or the far left. Mr. Altmire spends much time explaining how the situation began and the causes that continue to insert themselves between elected officials, forcing them further and further apart. He bases his theories on facts and provides a wealth of footnotes for readers to investigate.While I did not agree with all of the author’s solutions to the polarization issue, what is refreshing is that he is choosing to speak up and address a serious issue that currently plagues our country. I personally would be happy to see some or all of his suggestions implemented, knowing full well that I do not agree with all of them. However, that is what Mr. Altmire is talking about. Compromise is not getting the other person to accept all of your talking points, it is a give and take that results in laws that accommodate both sides. This book is a step in that direction. Five stars.
