MISSOULA - The state of politics, political violence and the growing lack of respectful discourse brought most members of the Missoula City Council together on Monday night, calling for a national shift in tone, one that should begin at the local level.

While differences remain on the left and right of politics, healthy debate should be welcomed and protected, and working through issues should come with respect, regardless of disagreement.

The discussion, which lasted over an hour during Monday night's meeting, follows the assassination of Republican Charlie Kirk in Utah and the assassination of state Rep. Melissa Hortman, a Minnesota Democrat, earlier this year.

“We should be able to feel safe as Americans to have open debate and dialogue about various issues,” said council member Bob

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