Cross the Aisle, Create the Change.

In today’s deeply divided political environment, many believe that policy change requires picking a side. But the truth is, working across the aisle is often essential for success.

I once found myself working on an issue that seemed to fall naturally within one faction of the state legislature. The policies were supported by one side, but the other wasn’t engaging with the issue. This was a problem because the support of both sides was needed to pass the legislation crucial to the company I represented.

At first, it seemed like we were at an impasse. But instead of treating the issue as a partisan battle, we decided to reframe the conversation. We shifted the focus to something both sides could agree on: fair business practices. While the primary issue might have been a tough sell, this adjacent issue resonated with the opposition’s values, making it easier for them to support the bill.

Rather than pushing forward with a single approach, we found common ground and built support for the legislation. This led to bipartisan backing and ultimately the passage of a favorable bill.

The key takeaway is that working across the aisle is about more than just compromising—it’s about understanding the other side's perspective and finding shared values. Reframing an issue so that it resonates with both sides can open doors to support, even on contentious issues.

In a divided government, finding ways to collaborate across party lines is essential. Focus on common priorities, reframe the conversation, and look for opportunities to bring all sides together. Working across the aisle can unlock the policy changes you need.

If you're navigating policy change and need help finding common ground, take my Policy Vulnerability Survey. It will help you identify where to focus your efforts for real, bipartisan success.