From the file. Written for the paper dated December 1992. Opened in the public stacks July 14, 2026.
As the year winds down, the national discourse seems to be fixated on processes rather than outcomes. Both sides of the political spectrum are guilty of this misplaced emphasis, leading to a disjointed understanding of what truly matters in governance and policy.
Process Over Performance: A Dangerous Trend
In recent weeks, we have witnessed a curious phenomenon in American politics: both the left and the right have become so enamored with their respective processes that they have lost sight of tangible performance and results. Whether it’s the ongoing health care debates or the economic recovery talks, the focus has drifted away from the actual impacts of policies and initiatives. Instead, we are inundated with discussions about how decisions are made, rather than what those decisions yield.
This fixation on process is not just a trivial annoyance; it has serious implications for governance. The left continues to champion an idealistic approach to social programs, emphasizing procedural fairness and inclusivity. In doing so, they often overlook the effectiveness of these programs. Meanwhile, the right emphasizes deregulation and market-driven solutions, yet frequently loses sight of the practical outcomes of such policies for everyday Americans.
“Both sides are losing sight of the end goal: improving the lives of citizens.”
The numbers tell a troubling story. For instance, while the left boasts about the number of people enrolled in public health programs, they often fail to address the quality of care these individuals receive. Enrollment figures are celebrated, yet patient outcomes remain subpar. On the flip side, the right’s obsession with tax cuts and deregulation often ignores the growing income disparity and the plight of the working class. The results of these policies are not reflected in the stock market alone; they should be measured by the well-being of the average American.
Echoes of Activism
Activism has surged on both sides, but the focus on process has led to a cacophony of voices that often drowns out meaningful dialogue. Progressive groups have mobilized around procedural reforms, pushing for more transparency and accountability. Yet, in this pursuit, they risk becoming bogged down in bureaucratic red tape that stymies real progress. Their fight for procedural justice, while noble, sometimes overshadows the need for actual policy effectiveness.
Conversely, conservative activists tend to rally around the idea of minimal government intervention, advocating for a free-market system that they argue leads to more efficient outcomes. However, their reluctance to engage with the complexities of social issues can lead to policies that favor the affluent while neglecting the marginalized. The result? A political landscape where the needs of the majority are often sidelined in favor of ideological purity.
Bridging the Divide
It is increasingly clear that a recalibration is needed. Both sides must recognize the importance of performance in addition to process. It is not enough to simply create programs or pass legislation; we must evaluate their effectiveness and adapt accordingly. The electorate deserves to see measurable outcomes that positively affect their lives, not just assurances that the “right” processes are in place.
Imagine a political landscape where both sides worked together to develop policies that are both procedurally sound and effective. This would require a willingness to engage in honest discussions about the outcomes of policies, rather than hiding behind the comfort of process-oriented rhetoric. The American people are yearning for solutions that truly work, not just discussions about how to arrive at those solutions.
As 1992 draws to a close, let us hope that as a nation we can shift our focus away from mere process and towards performance that truly benefits all Americans. It is time for our leaders to embrace a dual focus - recognizing that process matters, but performance is paramount. The future of our democracy depends on it.
✦ ✦ ✦