Gov. Scott calls for healing of divisions

A country road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott urged citizens to do their part to heal divisions in the country, in the wake of a foiled plot in Michigan to allegedly overthrow that state's government and kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Thirteen men were arrested in connection with the reported plot, including six members of a right-wing militia accused of planning the kidnapping. The FBI and state and local law enforcement collaborated in the case. Throughout this year, Whitmer, a Democrat, has been the subject of intense criticism from political opponents over state-imposed restrictions to address the pandemic.

At his press conference on Friday, Scott condemned the alleged plot, which he said also included plans to take over the Michigan State Capitol, take hostages and attack law enforcement and first responders. 

"This news, which appears to be driven by intense and deep polarization, is shocking and disturbing, and is why all of us need to find a way to heal the deep divisions in our country," he said. 

Vermont's governor said the country is "reaching a boiling point" and we need to collectively bring the temperature down. 

"Elected officials across the country, but especially at the top, must realize that words matter," Scott said. "We all need to be aware that violent groups exist, and we must stop the rhetoric that incites this path to violence."   

Scott made another important point on Friday, about the impact of divisiveness. 

"We all must do better, because our kids are watching, and they're learning from us." 

When it comes to rhetoric, that really is the first thing a lot of young Americans pick up on, because the rhetoric tends to make it to social media very quickly. And these days, so much of it seems negative, feeding a cycle of conflict. We have to remind each other, including our kids, that working toward unity begins with how we interact with people, including those we disagree with. We have to find opportunities for progress, rather than simply call out our differences. We may find commonalities where we least expect them. 

The news in Michigan is difficult to process; for most of us, it's difficult to even fathom. But where there is turmoil, there's also an opportunity for compassion, which is a powerful building block for the unity this country greatly needs. We all have a role in that healing process. But the solutions to those challenges start on a small scale, with each of us approaching our fellow humans with open hearts and an inclusive, listening ear. That's how we start to push back against division, and replace it with the peace we cultivate together. 

— Gareth Henderson