Staff Reports
The House’s recent passage of a continuing resolution to keep the government funded until November 21 has exposed yet again the dysfunction that plagues Washington. Representative Tom Cole, a steady voice in Congress, emphasized that this was a clean bill designed to prevent disruption for federal employees and everyday Americans. Yet instead of recognizing this good-faith measure, Senate Democrats—under pressure from their activist base—seem more inclined to play political games than govern responsibly.
The truth is, the bottleneck sits squarely in the Senate, where Chuck Schumer and his caucus are being dragged leftward by radicals who have no interest in fiscal discipline. Their demands for partisan carveouts and pet projects stand in stark contrast to the House’s clean approach. It is telling that as Republicans show willingness to prioritize stability, Democrats are more concerned with appeasing Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and the far-left fringe than ensuring paychecks go out to hardworking Americans.
Cole is right to call out the troubling tone of Democrats, who too often use moments of national tragedy or political tension to lecture rather than lead. Instead of demonstrating sympathy and unity, figures like Ocasio-Cortez latch onto divisive rhetoric that only inflames the situation. When Americans are left wondering if their livelihoods will be collateral damage in another manufactured standoff, partisanship should take a backseat to responsibility.
What is most frustrating for Americans watching this drama unfold is how little regard Democrats show for the consequences of their obstruction. Federal workers, military families, and essential services do not have the luxury of political grandstanding. Republicans have put a simple, responsible funding bill on the table. It is Schumer and his allies who must decide whether they care more about satisfying the demands of activists or ensuring the government keeps running smoothly.
Cole’s broader message—about lowering the temperature of our politics—is a timely one. The attacks, hostility, and even violence we’ve seen against public figures in recent years are symptoms of a toxic culture fueled by the left’s obsession with confrontation over cooperation. Republicans like Cole are urging common sense, stability, and civility. The question remains whether Democrats will meet them halfway or if they will continue sacrificing the nation’s stability to pander to their loudest voices. For the sake of the country, Americans should be demanding the former.
