Lawmakers trying to build bridges
COLUMBUS – Two central Ohio lawmakers who have successfully bridged their partisan divide are calling on others to do the same.
U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty, a Democrat, and Republican Steve Stivers have announced the creation of the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus, which "encourage all Members of Congress to act with civility and respect in their political discourse," qualities many would say have been in short supply on Capitol Hill.
"Joyce and I don't always agree on how to solve the issues facing our nation, but we find common ground where we can. More importantly, when we do disagree, we don't vilify one another," Stivers said.
The announcement was made at a panel discussion on civility at the Columbus Metropolitan Club, where Beatty and Stivers addressed the importance of bringing civil discourse back into politics.
Initial members of the caucus include Ohioans David Joyce (R-Bainbridge Twp.) and Marcia Fudge (D-Cleveland), as well as Fred Upton (R-MI) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI); Tom MacArthur (R-NJ) and Donald Norcross (D-NJ); and Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) and Congressman Steve Knight (R-CA).
To join the Caucus, each member must have a partner from the other side of the aisle, Beatty and Stivers said
Over the next year, the two plan to visit high schools and civic organizations across central Ohio to promote the use of a respectful dialogue on tough issues while the other members will be encouraged to lead similar discussions in their own districts.
"Steve and I both know the value of civility, respect and open dialogue, and we urge our fellow Members of Congress to do the same," Beatty said.
Stivers and Beatty have worked together on issues like homelessness, veterans' concerns, human trafficking, and financial literacy.
Both are members of the exclusive House Committee on Financial Services and serve as co-chairs of the Financial and Economic Literacy Caucus.
This article was originally published by Sunny 95 News on February 10, 2018