From Ben Sasse in 6 Feb 2026 WSJ op-ed, Politics Should Be More Like the Super Bowl
American politics work best when they accommodate more casual fans. Don’t mistake this for mushy middle indifference. American politics should be a place for citizens who care, show up, argue passionately about policy, but then keep on living life. Today, that approach is being crowded out by the perpetually enraged. There’s painfully little room left for those who believe that political life matters, but know that it isn’t the center of the universe.
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America works only if we remember that government is the source neither of our rights nor the meaning in our lives. Our neighborhoods matters more than Washington. Our neighbors matter more than strangers on social media. Churches, workplaces and, yes, Super Bowl parties are where purpose and community are found. Distant politics can’t replace these thicker, more flesh-and-blood institutions.
America would be a healthier place if we treated civics more like a Super Bowl party. Make it general admission. Open up more space for people who care but aren’t obsessed. Pick sides. Argue calls. Talk a little trash. Some diehards will show up with face paint, but they’ll always be a minority.