As we are taking down the Christmas tree and packing away the holiday decorations, I wanted to close the season with this story. But before I do, can you take a moment to contribute just $5 to my campaign?

Several years ago the Jerusalem Post ran an article about what it called “a remarkable Christmas party . . . convened by a very senior foreign diplomat” at his home. About 60 people attended that party, including about 20 Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza and an equal number of Israelis including senior Israeli Defense Force military officers in uniform, as well as foreign diplomats.

As the author of the article recalled:

“The most amazing thing about the evening was how normal it felt. I stood off on the side for a moment watching this astounding gathering, gazing at the interaction between the people there. There were no walls. There was no hatred, there was no animosity and people were genuinely enjoying each other’s company.”

I remember that party well, because I was the senior diplomat who hosted it at my home when I had the privilege of representing the United States in Israel.

I’ve brought people together for all of my professional life. Whether it was Palestinians and Israelis, public and private sector leaders, or investors and business owners, I’ve tried to bring people together to find common ground. I believe that’s what good government is all about – helping people work and live together and pursue mutual interests for everyone’s benefit.

But not all politicians see their job that way. They believe that if they emphasize differences and divide people into “us” and “them,” that will help them win elections. They stir up conflict, because conflict helps them stay in power.

Andy Harris is one of those politicians. He perpetuates the Big Lie that the last election was “stolen.” He undermines faith in our election system and democratic institutions. He refuses to support first responders or honor police officers who protected the Capitol on Jan. 6 from violent rioters. He prescribes quack remedies to treat Covid rather than wholeheartedly endorse public health recommendations that are proven to be most effective in reducing infections. He refuses to support infrastructure improvements that will provide broadband service, better roads and bridges, expanded ports, and good jobs to the Maryland First District.

All Andy wants is for you to be angry, suspicious, and hostile toward “them,” because that’s what he believes will keep him in office.

I’ve got a different view of what a member of Congress should do. Just as I did in the Middle East, I want to bring people together who can put political and cultural beliefs aside and improve the lives of everyone in their communities. I want to build bridges – literally and figuratively – to put people to work and grow our economies. I want business owners, farmers, watermen, corporations and workers to thrive, no matter who they voted for. I want to see the First District become a leader in the emerging clean energy economy, because we can all benefit from a growing economy and a cleaner, healthier environment whether we identify as red or blue.

I am tired of division, and especially tired of the dividers. I think the people of the First District are, too. We want to end gridlock in Congress. We want to improve our economy and create opportunities for success through education. We want quality, affordable, and accessible health care. We want to protect our natural resources. We understand that we are stronger when we work together, because that’s the way we live our lives.

Mostly, we want cooperation and respect to feel normal again. Won’t you help support my campaign?

-- Dave Harden