Terry M. Stier, Minnesota State Representative of 22B District | Official Website
Terry M. Stier, Minnesota State Representative of 22B District | Official Website
Representative Terry Stier has expressed concern about the growing political divide in the United States, emphasizing that people are increasingly judged by their party affiliation rather than their character or ideas. He noted, "Too often today, you are judged not by your character, your actions, or your ideas, but by whether there is an 'R' or a 'D' after your name. If you belong to one side, the other side hates you for it. And if you fall somewhere in the middle, where most Americans do, it feels like you are despised by both."
Stier reflected on the country's founding principles of freedom and open dialogue. He stated, "Our nation was built on freedom: freedom to hold opinions, freedom to speak them, and freedom to disagree without fear of being judged or hated for it. Differences in perspective are not a weakness. They are part of the strength of a free society." According to Stier, the ability to share differing ideas and still maintain respect is essential for national strength.
He observed that political identities have become deeply personal and divisive: "We have allowed political identities to harden into personal ones. It has become common to assume the worst about someone just because they vote differently or watch a different news channel. That is not a path toward solving problems. It is a recipe for deeper division."
Stier called for renewed efforts to find common ground: "We need to find our way back to the middle. That does not mean abandoning your beliefs, but it does mean respecting others even when you disagree." He stressed shared community values over partisan conflict: "We all have families to raise, bills to pay, and communities we care about. Those shared experiences are far more important than the political battles that divide us."
As he travels through District 22B in Minnesota, Stier said he hears from residents who prioritize safe neighborhoods, strong schools, reliable healthcare, and responsible government spending—issues he described as concerns shared across party lines: "These are not Republican or Democrat issues. They are Minnesota issues."
Stier concluded with a call for unity while respecting differences: "If we want to preserve the country we love, we need to remember that unity does not mean uniformity. It means holding firm to our values while still finding common ground. That is what will keep Minnesota and America strong, and that is what I will continue to fight for at the Capitol."