The Importance of Common Sense in Political Discourse

2 days ago 0

Elon Musk attended a ceremony with President Donald Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping in Beijing on May 14, 2026. Recently, during an interview with The Economist, Musk posed a significant question. Interviewer Zanny Minton Beddoes challenged Musk, suggesting he supports fringe right-wing parties globally. Musk countered by stating, “No, I support the normal people.” This has sparked a debate about what constitutes ‘normal,’ especially among the political left.

Musk emphasized what he believes are fundamental principles. He asked, “Should we have secure borders? Safe cities? Sensible spending?” He questioned if these are truly far-right beliefs. Musk’s upbringing in extreme poverty, moving between 34 homes as a child, shaped his conservative views. For him, pragmatic solutions were essential for survival.

For the past two decades, I’ve been independent, seeking common sense solutions for the working class and disenfranchised. Solutions that prioritize children’s safety and future. I believe that secure borders, safe cities, and sensible spending are pragmatic goals for all children, regardless of political affiliation.

If progressive leaders like NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani or Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez championed these principles, left-leaning individuals might agree. However, trends like defunding police and abolishing prisons make such advocacy unlikely. Musk, like President Trump, often stirs strong reactions from the left. Yet, it’s crucial to consider historical perspectives. The Democratic Party once fought against discrimination and censorship.

Today, the left often promotes hate, censorship, and cancellation. Disagreement can lead to vilification. I highlighted this trend in my book “The 56: Liberty Lessons From Those Who Risked All to Sign the Declaration of Independence.” There’s a growing call to “reimagine” American history, even erasing contributions of our Founding Fathers. While history has both negatives and positives, it serves as a lesson.

We live in divided and dangerous times. Civil discourse is vanishing. Focusing on common-sense solutions is crucial for survival. Musk’s question challenges us to consider our nation’s future and what necessary actions will help us coexist in peace.

Douglas MacKinnon is a former White House and Pentagon official.