Michael Smolens: Carl Luna has deep concerns about the election, and a lot of other thoughts

Following the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, Republicans and Democrats came together in rare agreement: Everybody needs to tone down the harsh political rhetoric.

“That lasted about 48 hours,” said Carl Luna.

The longtime political science professor has been a fixture in the San Diego political scene and local media for years. For much of that time he has sought to bring more civility and respect into public dialogue.

In other words, he’s been pushing a big rock up a very steep hill. Political attacks seem as sharp and personal — and sometimes threatening — as ever. Threats to politicians have increased locally and nationwide.

Luna, 64, is professor emeritus at San Diego Mesa Collage, a visiting professor at the University of San Diego, and director of the Institute for Civil Civic Engagement. Given the disquieting state of politics, it seemed like a good time to check in with him.

Right now, he has more on his mind than the level of political rhetoric. He sees the potential for post-election violence — particularly if Donald Trump is elected, protests erupt nationwide, and t...