The new norm: When tragedy hits, Americans stand divided

Not since 9/11 has a moment like this brought the nation together, and that evaporated quickly. Since then, calamity seems only to drive the left and the right further apart, while faith in the nation’s institutions deteriorates further.

Across the ideological and partisan divide, it no longer seems possible to even explore — much less agree upon — causes and solutions. So the response has been muddled, even while the next tragedy looms.

“Although it’s still early in the investigation, we know enough to say that this was an act of terror and an act of hate,” President Obama said Sunday. “And as Americans, we are united in grief, in outrage, and in resolve to defend our people.”