Sen. Murphy and Gov. Cox Launch Initiative to Address U.S. Happiness Deficit

Senator Chris Murphy, D-Conn., and Utah's Republican Governor Spencer Cox have launched the 'Restoring the Common Good Initiative,' a national effort aimed at addressing the growing happiness deficit in the United States. The initiative seeks to move away from divisive politics and instead focus on conversations about "the state of American anxiety" and what constitutes a good life.

Murphy and Cox have assembled a diverse group of thinkers, researchers, and authors from across the political spectrum to participate in a series of roundtable conversations throughout the country. The first of these discussions is set to take place in Salt Lake City on Friday, April 26, 2024. The goal is to explore what gives Americans a sense of meaning and purpose, and how policy can support these efforts to help more people lead fulfilled lives.

The initiative comes at a time when many Americans are reporting lower levels of happiness and hope, with issues such as economic struggles, disconnection from community, and distrust in institutions contributing to this trend. "The goal is to spark discussions on what gives Americans meaning and purpose, and how policy can support these efforts," Murphy explained.

Why this matters: The Restoring the Common Good Initiative represents a rare bipartisan effort to address a growing societal issue that transcends political divisions. By focusing on the fundamental question of what makes a good life, the initiative aims to shift the national conversation and inspire new approaches to policymaking that prioritize the well-being and happiness of all Americans.

While the initiative focuses on the spring and summer months, Murphy and Cox hope that the conversations will set off a broader discussion that others will build upon. The roundtable discussions will bring together practitioners from various fields to break down traditional political divisions and explore new areas of collaboration that can help more Americans lead meaningful lives.

Key Takeaways

• Bipartisan 'Restoring the Common Good' initiative to address happiness deficit in US
• Aims to shift national conversation on what constitutes a good life
• First roundtable discussion set for April 26, 2024 in Salt Lake City
• Diverse group of thinkers, researchers, and authors to participate in discussions
• Initiative seeks to inspire new policymaking approaches to improve well-being