Candidates must explain how they'll get solutions

We have done well in exposing the extremes of right and left in this presidential campaign, but now we need to know: Will the next president be able to get past confrontations, stalemates, and threats of government closures and restore the public trust?

We need candidates to move beyond false promises and exposing the worst of their opponents’ past. How about asking: How will you lead us forward and bring all sides together for creating solutions? Who will you bring in to guide the process of discussions to keep it respectful and on track? What experts will you consult on key issues since you cannot know it all? How will you find out from the people your decisions affect what they need to craft their own solutions? And most of all, how will you inspire citizens to partner with you in finding solutions?

How can we decide who to vote for if we do not hear the candidates answer these questions? I believe our faith in government can be restored if those we elect can get past stalemates and inspire us as citizens to be involved – to care for each other and the planet on which we live.

Hearing the answers to these questions is essential. We must have confidence in the ability of our next president to partner with legislative colleagues and us in crafting solutions after the dust of the campaign settles.

This story was originally published April 6, 2016 at 3:33 PM with the headline "Candidates must explain how they'll get solutions."