The conservative governor emphasizes that this isn’t just another warm and fuzzy civility initiative. He’s working with experts at universities such as Stanford and Dartmouth to understand the science behind toxic animosity. He said research shows that leaders of different political tribes talking to each other respectfully in public works to lower animosity.
Running for governor in 2020, Mr. Cox recorded an ad with his Democratic opponent, Chris Peterson, in which both pledged to respect the results of the election. To kick off the “Disagree Better” campaign, which he is set to announce on Friday in Atlantic City, he filmed a public service announcement with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D). Together they’ll encourage governors to record similar spots in their states. The NGA will pay the production costs.