In watching a common news channel in the United States once, it can clearly be seen that party polarization has made a complete takeover in U.S. politics. In fact, U.S. political parties have become increasingly polarized since World War II. One may think, how is that possible? The main reason for this is politicians attempting to secure votes. The way the United States political system is set up forces politicians and in this case presidential candidates to appear more extremist to gain party votes in the primaries and then to appear more moderate to the public once they win the party nomination. However, media coverage of politicians most extreme views has led the public to believe that some politicians are more extreme than they actually are. This has been trending since World War II and a large factor in what is increasing the polarized nature of United States politics.

(GIF of Increasing Polarization)

However, just when American political party polarization had been at an all time high under the recent presidential administration, the U.S. government underwent a significant change with the election of Joe Biden. Joe Biden is considered a moderate centrist and breaks the recent trend of more extreme presidents. This is the U.S. public calling for unity over divide, something that is critical in our nation currently. However, the nation is still far away from unity across parties as radical liberals and conservatives continue to divide the nation over top issues such as COVID-19 restrictions, gun control, abortion, and others.

(Political Compass of Joe Biden and Donald Trump)

As a common citizen, it is important for us to do our part in bringing unity. For example, one action a common citizen could take in combatting polarization is to make contact with groups outside of their views. This can help to put in perspective the views of an opposing group. In addition, views can even be shared by those of an opposing political party as there is no set of solutions to all given problems in the U.S today. Another action a common citizen could take is to vote for their views rather than their political party. This is an approach that an increase number of moderate Americans are taking. By voting for policies over political party, a citizen is making it more likely that they are electing an official that will institute policies that they support as opposed to voting by political party no matter the policy. Those are just a few of the various approaches an American can take to fight party polarization and can help unify America in the future.