The formation of our constitutional, democratic republic was the liberating elixir for a species confined by a perpetual cycle of tribalistic bloodshed, opportunistic tyranny and economic stagnation. The idea a people could be united not on immutable characteristics, but upon a set of righteous ideals, was unprecedented when the colonies declared their independence in 1776.

I believe our founding fathers would weep joyfully at seeing what our nation has become — at what a future their words paved. Because of their actions, the world has transformed, liberalized and democratized. The ills of dictatorship and poverty have fought a losing battle ever since those wise souls dissolved those political bands.

I fear, however, we have begun to lose our way.

I will not assert American politics has not always had nasty elements to it. The rapacious vultures that command airwaves and informational channels have always been waiting at the door, feeding upon our fear. Unfortunately, I find these vultures to be ever-growing in number, or at the very least, their voices increasingly drowning out those of reason and rationality.

I remember hearing former President Barack Obama would bring about the end times, forming some sort of new world order to end the grand experiment of the United States. I remember hearing former President Donald Trump would imprison those who vocalized dissent toward his reign. I also remember hearing that our country simply wouldn’t survive a Joe Biden presidency.

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Despite none of these prophecies being fulfilled, the fear and desperation of millions of Americans has only worsened. The human response to feeling backed into a corner with everything to lose, combined with a lack of trust in the institutions that make up the backbone of our republic, is a dangerous combination.

For many, politics is now war. Political violence is becoming increasingly acceptable across the political spectrum. Americans are continually isolating themselves from differing points of view. The urge to not simply defeat political opponents in an election, but to purge them from public view entirely has become commonplace.

I’ve had the opportunity to pen these little monthly blurbs with Lisa LaBriola for quite some time now. For years in the State Capitol, Lisa and I worked on opposite sides of the aisle. The debates were heated, the social media attacks spirited and pointed and the disagreements deep. Yet, today, we remain friends. I cannot imagine how boring life would be if I decided to maintain friendships with only those I agreed with.

Don’t vilify people based on politics | POINT

Unlike most Americans, I won’t be casting a vote for either major party candidate in November. Considering the plausibility of a third-party or independent candidate emerging victorious on Nov. 5 (0%, approximately), I’m quite certain I’ll be disappointed with whatever outcome emerges.

Yet, the next day, I know the sun will rise. The amazing human beings that make up our nation will go to work, bring their kids to school, innovate, create and push the boundaries of humanity toward incredible achievement.

The calls for peace and civility may seem a bit cliché, but I believe the survival of our republic is dependent upon citizens having the ability to converse with those they differ from on political thought and philosophy, accept election results (yes, even when their side loses) and not lose hope in the promise of America.

Love your neighbor, make sure to vote and remember tomorrow the sun will rise.

Sage Naumann is a conservative commentator and strategist. He operates Anthem Communications and was previously the spokesman for the Colorado Senate Republicans. Follow him on Twitter @SageNaumann.