PR Opportunity Missed: Brett Kavanaugh Could Have Healed Our Country

When it comes to the Ford Kavanaugh debate, Americans need to wade through their own deep-seated personal biases, political affiliation, and opinion of where the truth lies. But one thing is clear, the debate has sparked fiery language and even stronger emotions. This was avoidable.

Full disclosure: I am left learning. What breaks my heart is not Ford’s testimony, but Kavanaugh’s. He had an opportunity to quell our divisiveness and frankly run the table, completely upending the case the Democrats were trying to make. He could have been believed and beloved. How? By using openness and understanding and empathy and humanity. All brands can learn from this. This is what it could have looked like:

·        Thank you for the opportunity to speak and clear my name

·        I only vaguely remember the events 35 years ago for two reasons. Firstly, because they were 35 years ago. Secondly, because my memory of the incident was me acting like a stupid, brash young “man” and I mean that in quotes who was trying to show off for my friend. I had no idea that Dr. Ford even remembered me, let alone was harboring this secret. I had no idea of her pain.

·        I am not going to lecture you that it was a different cultural time because that would excuse my behavior.

·        However, a cornerstone job requirement of being a judge anywhere – let alone the Supreme Court – is to examine and re-examine fact and perceptions within cultural norms. It is imperative that I understand all sides as I weigh a decision. It’s impossible to pass judgement without understanding.

·        I may be required to judge a case of sexual assault and I think that it is only fitting that I take the lead and fully immerse myself and understand this issue

·        To that end, I have scheduled meetings with RAIIN, Safe Horizon and leading institutions to become intimately aware of this growing crisis in America.

·        Regardless of the outcome of this nomination process, it is incumbent on us all as a nation to understand each other and not greet each other with suspicion and hostility. That is particularly true as a judge.  

·        I ask the opportunity to learn and grow and change, so that I can become a better version of myself and a better judge.

·        Most importantly, I ask for forgiveness

·        I want to say that I am sorry Dr. Ford and I am sorry Christine.

That’s what he should have said. Opportunity missed.