About the publisher: When dealing with political polarization, columnist Jean Guerrero advises that we “be more confident in our ability to connect with others.” The implication is that the gap between Democrats and Republicans can be bridged. “The only other options,” she writes, “are national divorce or civil war.”

Guerrero also admits: “The two sides are not equal. Republicans are further to the right than Democrats to the left, and right-wing extremists are the most violent.

She cites other differences, but fails to point out the biggest one: the former president tried to overturn the 2020 election, and he still has strong support. Many members of Congress, all of them Republicans, voted against confirming President Biden’s election victory. Last month, a Republican legislator proposed a national divorce.

Since there is nothing in common between arsonists and firefighters, constructive dialogue between those who value democracy, the constitution and the rule of law and those who do not is not possible.

Guerrero’s quest is a noble one, but her efforts will fail unless members of a tribe accept the principles by which the nation is run.

Mike Diehl, Glendale

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About the publisher: In Guerrero’s column, I found a long discussion about polarization, but no solution other than the obvious that we all need to be more open-minded and tolerant. Let me suggest a solution.

What about removing the ability for voters to register with a political party?

We create the polarization ourselves through self-declaration. We should not think of ourselves as Democrats or Republicans. We are free to vote Progressive or Conservative on any issue or candidate.

Of course, Congress will never allow this, because we will all think more about election issues than which political party we belong to.

Dwight Abbott, Palos Verdes Estates.

About the publisher: Guerrero admits that “right-wing extremists are most prone to violence”.

In all probability? According to the Anti-Defamation League, by 2022, 100% of extremism-related homicides will be committed by right-wing extremists.

Don’t ask me to consider them equals.

Cynthia Carle, Los Angeles

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About the publisher: I applaud Guerrero’s efforts to reverse the bitterness machine of the Democrats and Republicans.

I can’t say how Mr. Frog’s wild ride didn’t start, but I know it’s much harder to get off of it than it was. Thanks to Guerrero for trying to prevent this clash in our society.

Paul Skophammer, Malibu