The political tone in Selma is far more contentious than it has ever been.

Whether it is snide comments within the Selma City School Board meetings or those unfortunate comments made in the Selma City Council chambers, our elected leaders have started providing evidence there are those in Selma who have the inability to not just debate but debate civilly.

The art of civil debate is something our country is founded upon. The entire bases of being part of a free society is having the ability to air out differences, express different opinions and come to a consensus.

As an elected leader in our representative forms of government — whether it is at the municipal, county, state or national level — the ability to argue a point, listen to the opposing view and then live with the consequences of a vote is a necessity.  Instead, we now have leaders who take things personally, make personal attacks and wage wars in print, on television and on radio doing anything they can to discredit those who might have an opposing view.

And, unfortunately, the campaign to fill a vacant position on the Selma City Council — a position that only guarantees the victor just over a year in office — has seen such tactics.

Whether it is yard signs or comments on the radio, this campaign has showcased their remains an inherent want to turn things negative, make personal attacks and direct attention from the issues facing our communities.

While it is refreshing to know the candidates, and their supporters, are passionate about winning and serving, there has got to be a better way than to tear down an opponent rather than finding ways to build up and promote your positions. Unfortunately, this is likely to continue throughout the year and definitely into next year as possible candidates for city council, school board, council president and mayor begin to position themselves for a run for office.

We can only hope the days, weeks, and months following this special election provide somewhat of a respite before the mud, muck and “stuff” begins to fly.

It is also our hope — although fleeting — that maybe this next election will prove we have learned our lessons, that we have regained the ability to hold a civil debate and express views on situations without making personal attacks.

Maybe, just maybe, it’ll happen.