Bill McBride’s tenure as executive director of the National Governors Association (NGA) has highlighted the importance of bipartisan cooperation amid a divided political landscape. As he prepares to step down, McBride’s insights shed light on how governors navigate challenges together, focusing on actionable solutions rather than political entanglements.
In an exclusive interview, McBride reflected on his work alongside both Democratic and Republican state leaders during particularly turbulent times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that the NGA saw increased participation from all 50 states and U.S. territories under his guidance, demonstrating a collective resolve to confront crises. “Executives have to produce,” McBride explained, emphasizing that governors are under immense pressure to deliver results swiftly.
The demands of their roles foster a sense of urgency that propels governors into collaboration. McBride described how, during the pandemic, the NGA facilitated weekly strategy sessions that brought together as many as 45 governors. This enabled them to share vital information on vaccines, testing, and other pressing challenges. This ongoing dialogue not only streamlined responses to the crisis but also helped forge stronger relationships among governors from different parties.
Despite these positive outcomes, McBride expressed concern about the decline of bipartisanship on a broader scale. He pointed to an unsettling trend of political factions becoming entrenched, further complicating dialogue. “I think we’ve gotten to a point where people are locked in different camps,” he remarked, highlighting the fear and stubbornness that can hinder cooperative efforts. Yet, he championed the value of cross-party exchanges, advocating for dialogue as a means to expand understanding and enhance policy formation.
The NGA was founded with a mission to serve as a nonpartisan entity focused on assisting governors with common challenges. McBride emphasized that the organization’s model centers on policy rather than politics, distinguishing it from other entities that may prioritize partisan agendas. This commitment to practical problem-solving allows governors to engage candidly, drawing from their shared experiences and insights to address key issues like education, cybersecurity, and infrastructure.
McBride also pointed to initiatives like “Disagree Better,” launched by incoming NGA chair Gov. Spencer Cox, showcasing the association’s commitment to fostering constructive discourse. He noted that this approach is critical in an era where disagreements can quickly spiral into hostility. “We can disagree with each other, but we don’t have to hate each other,” he declared, illustrating the potential for governors to model respectful debates that yield positive outcomes.
In reflecting on his time with the NGA, McBride articulated a vision for leadership that underscores the importance of unity and collaboration. As he steps away from his role, his perspective offers valuable lessons on navigating political tensions while still prioritizing the needs of constituents. The relationships built within the NGA reveal a commitment to building consensus, even in a time fraught with division, proving that cooperation remains vital to effective governance.
"*" indicates required fields
