MPs Burns and Leeser Champion Respectful Disagreement Amid Rising Political Polarization
CANBERRA – federal MPs Josh Burns and Julian Leeser are being recognized for demonstrating a rare level of respectful disagreement within the frequently enough-combative landscape of Australian politics, particularly in their shared stance against antisemitism. The pair, despite holding differing views on numerous issues, have forged a close working relationship built on civil discourse, a model they believe is desperately needed in wider political debate.
Both Burns and Leeser have faced internal challenges within their respective parties for upholding their convictions. Leeser emphasized the importance of standing firm on principles, stating, “You really wrestle with some of these issues, but you have to stand up for the things you think are right, becuase it’s your name on the door, your name on the seat, and you have to be able to look back and reflect on those.” he acknowledged the need for compromise within a party system, but stressed the importance of establishing “lines in the sand” on critical issues like the Voice to Parliament and combating antisemitism.
Burns similarly navigated disagreement within his party regarding antisemitism, prioritizing respectful engagement. “I don’t seek to be anything other than to be a respectful colleague. People know I will stand by my convictions, and do so in a way that doesn’t diminish other people,” he said.
Their friendship highlights a reality often obscured by parliamentary theatrics. “Most often you have to get along with people on the other side,” Burns explained, adding that such relationships “bolster the ability to try to get things done.”
The MPs’ ability to maintain a positive relationship despite fundamental disagreements is particularly notable. Burns remarked, “We disagree on many topics…and we’ve had long and detailed conversations about points over which we fundamentally disagree, and I can leave that conversation liking Julian a little bit more.”
Burns believes this approach should be more prevalent in political discourse. He questioned the value of negativity and hostility, asking, “What does it achieve, to put people down, to scream at one another, to think that you understand where they’re coming from and what they believe? At what point does that bring us closer to peace on the other side of the world?”
This story is part of a content partnership between the Herald, The Age, and McKinnon, an self-reliant, non-partisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting democracy and good government.
