On Aug. 8, the Auburn City Democratic Committee hosted a bipartisan gathering of candidates for mayor and city council. I applaud the chairman, Ed Desgrosseilliers, for creating an open atmosphere in which the views of all were listened to and discussed.

In this day of brutal partisanship, it was refreshing to see Republicans reaching out to Democrats. It was encouraging to see Democrats politely listening to and responding to views different from their own.

No one was labeled “unpatriotic” for expressing differing opinions. No one was interrupted by a chorus of “What’s the question?” when ideas were expressed. There were no shouts of “No!” when a new idea was offered. All candidates were applauded for their desire to serve this community and to help solve our problems.

This is the atmosphere the city, state and nation need to create in order to make progress.

Timothy K. Priestly, Auburn