Henry A. Brechter and Stephanie Bond at USA Today:
In early 2020, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce moved to reward members of Congress who demonstrate these values. Two new awards recognize “members of Congress who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward.” Sens. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Dean Phillips, D-Minn., who both recently won re-election, were recognized by the Chamber.
This isn’t just elected officials trying to butter up moderate constituents — young people are also working to create cross-partisan connections. A conservative college student named Benji Backer who created a climate change advocacy group spoke in front of Congress last year.
Friends Clara Nevins, a Democrat, and Joseph Touma, a Republican, started Bridge the Divide to help young people like themselves seek out respectful conversations and mutual understanding. The group has more than 100 ambassadors spread throughout the U.S. and 29 other countries.