Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Mary Kate Cary, former speechwriter for President George H.W. Bush and professor at UVA, co-teaches a popular election 2024 class alongside Jennifer Lawless. This course, which attracts nearly 500 students, offers a balanced, bipartisan perspective on politics. Cary emphasizes the importance of presenting both sides of political issues and encourages students to engage in respectful discourse. She remarked, “We agree on far more than we disagree on,” highlighting the common ground that exists across political divides.

In addition to her role as an educator, Cary is actively involved in fostering bipartisan conversations through UVA’s “Think Again” initiative. This initiative encourages students to engage thoughtfully with opposing viewpoints, promoting deeper understanding and collaboration. Cary recently participated in a “Braver Angels” debate centered on the Second Amendment, reinforcing her commitment to civil discourse. 

Cary also emphasized UVA’s top ranking for free speech by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), underscoring the importance of maintaining open dialogue on college campuses. As free speech faces growing challenges at universities across the country, Cary sees UVA’s ranking as a testament to its commitment to creating a vibrant marketplace of ideas. 

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