The recent antics in Congress seem straight out of a comedy sketch. In a Senate hearing, Senator Markwayne Mullin engaged in a peculiar challenge with Sean O’Brien, President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, while on the House side, Representative James Comer and his Democratic counterpart Representative Jared Moskowitz exchanged heated words. Marjorie Taylor Greene resorted to emojis in a tweet aimed at Representative Darrell Issa, while allegations of physical altercations, like Tim Burchett accusing former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, have become the norm.
Such incidents, occurring before lunchtime, now exemplify the daily occurrences within Congress. Apologies are unlikely, perceived as a sign of vulnerability. Whether these actions are ludicrous or serious, they mirror a growing trend—members are fleeing their posts, pointing fingers at their colleagues.
Post last week’s elections, several members of Congress and a senator announced their retirement. Some exits, like Senator Joe Manchin and Representative Abigail Spanberger, align with natural career progression or pivot toward gubernatorial aspirations due to challenging reelection prospects. However, a significant number now cite their frustration with the congressional circus as the primary reason for departure.
Congress is no longer the institution it once was, laments Representative Brian Higgins, citing a lack of focus on serving the American people amidst prolonged inactivity. The sentiment is echoed by Representative Debbie Lesko, who bemoans the current dysfunction in Washington, D.C. Representative Victoria Spartz has threatened immediate retirement if Congress fails to form a debt commission, expressing discontent with the absence of leadership.
Congressional exits typically stem from long service, higher aspirations, or electoral vulnerability. Yet, this cycle, retirements signal a collective sentiment: many members are simply saying, “Enough is enough.”
Recent House chaos, from stalled legislations to marathon speaker replacements, has contributed to this bleak atmosphere. The pressure of 10 consecutive weeks in session, culminating in failed procedural votes, has amplified political tensions. The congressional workspace has become toxic, taking a toll on both members and staff.
As a former House staffer, I vividly recall moments of frustration during a futile effort to extend the Bush tax cuts in 2012. Since then, the political climate has deteriorated further, characterized by incessant fights and mounting divisiveness, culminating in the Capitol attack on January 6.
Engaging in this environment is exhausting and demoralizing for members and staff alike. While they seek relief from the current chaos, the prospects for finding viable replacements are grim. Recruitment of competent candidates grows challenging, with a penchant for troublemakers over earnest lawmakers.
Addressing these issues is an uphill battle. Solutions seem elusive, from reshaping political incentives to curbing extremism within parties. Encouraging bipartisan collaboration should be a priority, but these solutions appear far-fetched.
For now, a temporary pause from chaos arrives as a stopgap bill passes in the House to avert a government shutdown. Senate approval awaits, providing members with a breather. Nevertheless, brace for more retirements as the disillusionment within Congress lingers.
