The 112th Session of the U.S. Congress convenes today. Republicans dominate the House while Democrats control the Senate (without a 2/3 majority).

The rhetoric is in high-gear as the partisan split becomes a dominant topic of the day. Republicans are more conservative this year with the election of a number of Tea Party affiliates.

The question I’m pondering is how does all the rhetoric help America solve our problems? Really.

Bottom line: In 2008, we didn’t like the way Republicans were governing, so we “threw the bums out.” In 2010, we didn’t like the way the Democrats were governing so we “threw the bums out.” No one is secure with the voters at this point in time.

The public wants to see problem-solving and results. So, go on with all your spouting of hateful words and then put it behind you and get to work.

Neither party will come out on top if you don’t help this country get back on track!

When I graduated college many moons ago with a degree in Government, I walked into the Texas Legislature as a Legislative Aide and thought I could change the world through policy. I was a wonk (still am) and believed that good policy was achievable. How idealistic!

I quickly learned that making policy is all politics. The saying that making laws is akin to making sausage is accurate. It’s a bloody mess.

Still, in bygone eras, it was o.k. to have friends on both sides of the ailse and to work together to address complex issues.

Now, the party litmus tests dominate everything. The Republicans in Congress want to vote to repeal the Health Care legislation because they want to put everyone on the record for next election cycle. They know the bill won’t pass and they are not really trying to solve the health care crisis.

The Democrats will do the same with business issues and with taxes “on the rich.”

Let’s call on these elected officials to stop with the rhetoric and do what is best for our country. Truly govern and try to address the critical issues of the day!