Meaning: This quote is from Edward Rendell, a prominent American politician who has served as the Mayor of Philadelphia, the Governor of Pennsylvania, and the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. In this quote, Rendell makes a pledge to the people, promising that the politics of division will have no place in his administration. He specifically mentions the division between east and west, urban and rural, region against region, and people against people.

Rendell's pledge reflects a commitment to unity and inclusivity in governance. He is expressing a rejection of the tactics often used in politics to create division and discord among people. By promising to eschew these divisive politics, Rendell is signaling his intention to govern in a way that brings people together, rather than driving them apart.

The notion of the "politics of division" is a concept that has been prevalent in political discourse for many years. It refers to the use of rhetoric and policies that seek to create and exploit divisions within society for political gain. This can take the form of emphasizing differences based on geography, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or other factors in order to rally support or demonize opponents. The politics of division can lead to polarization, animosity, and a lack of cooperation among different groups within a society.

Rendell's pledge to reject the politics of division is significant because it signals a commitment to a more inclusive and unifying approach to governance. By explicitly stating that these tactics will have no place in his administration, he is setting a standard for the type of leadership he intends to provide. This pledge may also serve as a reassurance to the public that his administration will seek to bridge divides and work towards common goals, rather than perpetuate discord and conflict.

The specific divisions that Rendell mentions in his pledge are also noteworthy. By referencing the divisions between east and west, urban and rural, region against region, and people against people, Rendell is acknowledging the various fault lines that can exist within a society. These divisions can be based on geography, socioeconomic factors, cultural differences, or other sources of tension. By addressing these specific divisions, Rendell is signaling an awareness of the challenges that may arise from such divisions and a determination to overcome them.

In making this pledge, Rendell is aligning himself with a long tradition of political leaders who have sought to transcend divisions and promote unity. Throughout history, many leaders have recognized the dangers of divisive politics and have worked to foster a sense of common purpose and cooperation among diverse groups. By rejecting the politics of division, Rendell is positioning himself as a leader who aspires to govern in the spirit of unity and collaboration.

Overall, Edward Rendell's pledge to reject the politics of division is a powerful statement of his commitment to inclusive and unifying governance. By making this pledge, Rendell is setting a tone for his administration and signaling his intention to bridge divides and work towards common goals. This pledge reflects a recognition of the dangers of divisive politics and a determination to govern in a way that brings people together, rather than driving them apart.