The Carville and Matalin show, live from MSU

By Jennifer J. Foster

In this space and in my columns, I talk frequently about the need for respectful political discourse in American politics today.

A lot of my friends say that my admiration (OK, I’m a groupie) of the political pundit known simply as The James doesn’t fit with that desire.

They don’t know The James.

James Carville and his wife, GOP strategist Mary Matalin, are famed for their individual work but moreso for their marriage. If the Ragin’ Cajun and the woman who once worked for Dick Cheney can live amicably with political differences within their four walls, why can’t we do the same within our expansive borders?

The Mr. and Mrs. were at Mississippi State recently to discuss just that. From The (Jackson, Miss.) Clarion-Ledger:

In talking with MSU students about their political differences, Carville and Matalin spoke to the strength of their individual beliefs and philosophies and those differences are obvious and real.

But the couple also demonstrates a pragmatism about the role that partisanship plays in ultimately shaping sound public policy that is refreshing and that is often lost in the din of the daily give and take of partisan politics.

Yes.

And know this: For all their differences, Carville and Matalin are optimists—both about America and Americans.

The couple entertained with one-liners zinging each other over their political differences, but Carville closed with a cogent point.

He reminded the students that in 1862 - “the worst year in American history” - Congress agreed to fund land grant colleges like State and Carville’s alma mater, LSU.

“Mary and I have met so many bright, capable students here at MSU,“ said Carville. “This country’s going to be fine.“

If you read just one thing today, let it be the Clarion-Ledger story linked to above.

It is as true in government as it is in life:

Optimism + Pragmatism = Success.