Drawing Lessons from Joe Lieberman to Mend America's Divide
The late Senator Joe Lieberman's wife, Hadassah, and son, Matthew, appeared on 'Fox News Sunday' to discuss how faith shaped the senator's life and his book, 'Faith's Answers to America's Political Crisis.' This March 17 marks the "yahrzeit," a Jewish tradition of remembrance, for Sen. Joe Lieberman, who passed away unexpectedly in 2024. During this time, family members honor their loved ones by reciting the mourners' kaddish and lighting candles.
Those who knew Joe Lieberman continue to feel his absence, missing his warmth and integrity. At memorial services and early showings of "Centered," a documentary about his life, there's a shared hope for more leaders like him in today's polarized political climate. The film will be shown in Regal Cinemas nationwide on March 18 and 19.
The longing for civility was highlighted by the partisan atmosphere during President Donald Trump's recent address to Congress. While it's easy to argue over which party contributes more to the current political divide, doing so misses the point of advocating for better conduct from both sides. The political rift, a troubling "gulf of America," brings us dangerously close to deadlock and chaos.
Although Joe Lieberman can no longer advocate for civility in politics, his legacy offers numerous examples. When delivering the Democratic response to President Ronald Reagan's final radio address in 1989, Lieberman refrained from political attacks, instead praising Reagan's dedication to freedom and love for the country.
In 1991, Lieberman broke ranks with many Democrats by co-sponsoring the resolution authorizing the Gulf War, following Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait. He worked with senators like John McCain on the 9/11 Commission and with Arlen Specter to establish the Department of Homeland Security. Lieberman also collaborated with Republican Sen. Bob Dole to urge Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton to take action against Serbian aggression in Bosnia.
Lieberman joined forces with leaders from both parties to address inappropriate content in media, leading to the creation of ratings systems that empower parents. His commitment to civil and human rights was evident throughout his life, from advocating for voting rights in Mississippi to ending the "don't ask, don't tell" policy in the military and promoting environmental protection.
Lieberman's public and private interactions were marked by kindness and respect, as attested by staffers who worked with him over the years. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained calm and composed, never raising his voice even in tense situations.
Joe Lieberman's career was characterized by friendliness and determination. His strong moral compass, guided by his faith, consistently directed him towards actions that benefited society. If he ever fell short, it was never due to ill intentions or weak principles. He was, as the prophet Isaiah described, a "repairer of the breach," not a source of division.
As long-time admirers of Joe Lieberman's leadership, we believe that America and the world would have been better off if he and Al Gore had won the 2000 election. Even after that significant disappointment, Lieberman maintained his grace and optimism, stating on the Senate floor after Gore conceded to George W. Bush, "America is a great country. We resolve our differences not with civil wars, but with spirited elections."
He continued, "It is time for us all to unite in support of these United States and the shared values that have long sustained us. Psalm 30 assures us that weeping may linger for the night, but in the morning, there are shouts of joy."
Our grief over Joe Lieberman's passing persists, especially during this yahrzeit, but his inspiring words and exemplary life encourage us to find hope and joy once more.