Everyone on all sides of an issue should be respectful

On every issue I have worked on, negative people seem to think threats and attacks are the best way to go.  They think threats on my election, and occasionally on my life, and attacks on my personal life will get them what they want.  I have given many issues a chance to be discussed in the democratic process including civil unions, campaign finance, tort, crime, protection of agricultural lands, and most recently shark fins, many of which never had a chance to even be heard in the past.  I am disappointed to see people be so negative.  It turns off many positive people who are trying to make a difference in society.  I believe everyone on all sides of an issue should be respectful and compassionate.