2016 has emerged a political cycle unlike any other: the first female presidential nominee for a major political party, a presidential nominee with no political experience, and a rise in popularity for third party candidates. Not only is this a unique situation, but this election has also exposed the clear political division currently going on the country. Now, more than ever, it seems like a fantasy if bipartisanship legislation and or cooperation will ever happen.
The Republican controlled house is a prime example because of their defunding of planned parenthood, the denial of hearing Supreme Court justice nominee Merrick Garland, and repealing the Affordable Health Care Act over 60 times. Our choice in candidates and issues fueled anger, hate, and opposition in all parties. Because of the control of the House by Republicans, some Democrats refuse to come together to work with Republicans on certain issues and vice versa with Republicans.
As a result of the divisiveness, the two-party system in America has recently garnered a bad repuation. According to a 2015 Gallup poll, 42 percent of Americans identify as Independents, while 29 percents identify as Democrats and 26 percent as Republicans. Clearly, a majority of voters are tired of the lack of bipartisanship occurring in the government. Enough is enough.
We need a political system promoting and serving the ideas of people, not the parties' own agendas. While it is necessary to have different parties be in control of the House, it does not equate to dominance, but instead a role of leadership and cooperation. When a party has control, use it to prove bipartisanship, team work, and healthy debate. Democrat, Republican, or whatever you may identify with, we can all agree politicians need to work together.
The government isn't designed, nor should it be, for politicians. We, as the United States of America, are a republic who elect officials we entrust to represent our voices and fight for our rights. Demolishing a two-party system or no parties at all is the solution, but finding officials who work together for the good of the country.
Not only is it the job of a congress person or senator to be respectful of other political opinions, but ours as well. This election has fueled the arguing and lack of respect for other political views. Nothing will ever be accomplished if we continue to point fingers and not come up with solutions.
So, in the wise words of the beloved Disney Channel movie, "We're all in this together!" Let's all stand up, come together, and create a cooperative government.
