We Are the Answer

Inspiration and practical ideas for preserving democracy, countering political violence, and restoring institutional legitimacy, from the lead investigator into Charlottesville and January 6.

In this essential guidebook, lead investigator into the racist riot in Charlottesville in 2017 and the January 6 insurrection Tim Heaphy outlines the constructive action we all can take to combat this frightening period of heightened tensions, accusations, and political violence in America.

It was clear to Heaphy long before President Trump's election to a second term that the American political system was broken, and the government's inability to be responsive to the majority of voters on a range of issues would only get worse. Sharing sobering stories of the lawlessness and dysfunction he witnessed in his investigations into Charlottesville and January 6, Heaphy identifies structural barriers that stack the odds against our being able to return compromise and civility to American politics. And yet, the irony of this division is that it is inconsistent with the fact that Americans share so many fundamental priorities.

Heaphy argues we can't rely on elected officials, individual heroes, the court system, or any other outside source to mend what's broken in America. There is no cavalry coming; we are the cavalry, and we must find ways to promote community over division with fellow citizens who do not necessarily share our politics.

Balancing practical considerations with defiant hopefulness, Heaphy provides readers with a treatise for how we can empower ourselves and others to heal our communities.

Table of Contents:
Contents
Introduction: Reluctant Expert
1. Insider vs. Outsider
2. The Lines of Division
3. Information Silos
4. “There Is No Cavalry Coming”
5. “Do the Right Thing”
6. Polarized Politics
7. Increasing Competition, Encouraging Compromise
8. Money in Politics
9. Evening the Campaign Finance Playing Field
10. The System Exacerbates Division
11. “It’s Harder to Hate Up Close”
12. Anger Separates Us
13. Anger as Motivation for Change
14. Apathy and Alienation
15. Maintaining Community
16. Courage and Accountability
17. Democracy Comes Down to Us
18. Balloons
19. Facilitating Participation in Public Life
20. Constructive Dialogue and Engagement
21. Pursuing the Common Good
22. Let Us All Recommit
Notes

About the Author :
Timothy J. Heaphy was Chief Investigative Counsel of the House of Representatives Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol. He also oversaw the independent investigation into the August 12, 2017 riot in Charlottesville, Virginia. Heaphy is a founding partner of Heaphy, Smith, Harbach, and Windom, LLP, and he lives in Charlottesville, Virginia with his family.

Review :
“Timothy Heaphy’s ideas about our country’s future should be listened to by all.” — John Grisham

“Heaphy’s deeply informed work is essential reading for all who hope to learn from the past so we don’t repeat it.” — Former FBI director James Comey, author of A Higher Loyalty

“A soulful and significant contribution to defeating the authoritarian threat in America.” — Congressman Jamie Raskin, author of Unthinkable

“I urge you to read this book, then do your part.” — Adam Kinzinger, author of Renegade

“Heaphy’s insights can help us reclaim a government that works for all Americans and restore faith in our democratic institutions.” — Barbara McQuade, author of Attack from Within

“Amid our nation’s bitter political divisions, Heaphy offers a hopeful message.” — Carol Leonnig, author of Zero Fail

“In this highly readable book, Heaphy points constructive paths forward toward a healthier and more hopeful future.” — David Von Drehle, author of The Book of Charlie

“A must-read for anyone who wants to understand the toxic ideologies and violent threats lurking just beneath the surface of our fractured politics.” — Nicolle Wallace, host of MSNBC’s Deadline: White House

“An essential read to build a path forward free from political violence.” — Preet Bharara, author of Doing Justice

“Important suggestions about how we can all do better, both inside and outside government.” — Glenn Kirschner

“Heaphy provides solutions to make sure our democracy stays intact. A must-read.” — Senator Tim Kaine

“Heaphy’s prescriptions, born of experience, should be required reading for anyone interested in preserving — and improving — participatory democracy on these shores.” — Robert Edwards, author of Resisting the Right

“If citizens are wise enough to follow Heaphy’s prescription for change, Americans will have a chance to cure what ails us before more damage is done.” — Larry J. Sabato, director, UVA Center for Politics