The Nonpartisan Legacy of George Norris

McCOOK Neb. - In a thought-provoking event held Sunday, Jan. 10, 2024, attendees gathered to explore the nonpartisan legacy of George Norris, a pivotal figure in Nebraska’s legislative history. The event was hosted by The Norris Institute, the Museum of the High Plains, and the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS), bringing together a community eager to reflect on the past while considering the future of governance.  

Dr. Peter Longo, an esteemed professor with over 40 years of experience teaching American government, led the discussion by tracing the historical roots of Nebraska's unique unicameral legislative system. He highlighted the long-standing advocacy by George Norris for this system, which has remained a defining feature of Nebraska’s governance since World War I, despite fleeting interest from other states. Longo pointed out how key Supreme Court decisions regarding the principle of "one person, one vote" solidified the unicameral structure in Nebraska, allowing it to thrive where similar initiatives struggled elsewhere.

   “I think I'm in my 40th year of teaching American government,” Longo shared with the audience, reflecting on his journey and the challenges he faces as an educator in today’s political climate. He conveyed a deep-seated commitment to fostering hope among students, stating that if he ever became cynical, it would be time for him to step aside. “Students come to class, they’re smart,” he said. “They often don’t know whether I’m a Republican or a Democrat, which is how it should be.”  The discussion took an intellectual turn as Longo delved into the Aristotelian concept of civic friendship and its relevance to modern governance.

Drawing upon George Norris’ legacy, he illustrated how true civic responsibility encompasses actions aimed at enhancing the community’s wellbeing. Norris’ endeavors, such as his efforts to save family farms and his support for the Tennessee Valley Authority, were emblematic of this civic friendship ideal.  Longo emphasized the moral imperative of governance—arguing that good governance is intrinsically linked to community involvement and ethical conduct. “When we think of Nebraska, known as the ‘Good Life State,’ we should recognize that this is rooted in the Aristotelian notion that we enter politics intending to achieve a better life,” he explained. He passionately advocated for the idea that the politics of our community should reflect a commitment to improving the lives of all citizens, not just a select few. 

  The event culminated with a heartfelt gesture as Maggie Repass from the Norris Institute presented Dr. Longo with a copy of “The Fighting Liberal,” George Norris’ autobiography. This symbolized not just an acknowledgment of Longo’s contributions but also a commitment to continue engaging with the principles Norris championed.  As the afternoon’s event drew to a close, participants left inspired by the lessons of George Norris and the enduring importance of nonpartisan dialogue in the pursuit of a better future. The event served as a reminder that while challenges abound in the political landscape, the principles of civic friendship and community engagement remain vital in shaping a thriving democracy.