Government shutdown, a looming debt ceiling deadline and constant bickering between parties has become the standard in American politics. The term “bipartisan” has been thrown to the wind to be replaced with party lines and personal interest. The entire definition of politics is being rewritten everyday as our officials drift further away from constituent interests and closer to partisan goals and party ambitions. This trend has not benefited the American people. Politicians today have diverted from the path of bipartisan responsibility and chosen instead to pursue their own agenda. This shift can only be rectified by ushering in a new age of politicians. These politicians need to be aware of the strife caused by a lack of bipartisanship and understand that there’s only one way to change things: by being the change. Ever since the recession that hit the American economy, politics has been a struggle. The economic crash led to unrest within our government, unrest that led to both parties resisting collaboration. This behavior has led to a lack of reaching across the aisle, something that’s required to provide the best governance of our society. Congress’ approval rating currently stands at 11 percent; the president’s rating is 44 percent, 10 percent less than the average for presidents. Without engaging the other side, no strides can be made without back-door deals and political games between parties. This lack of cooperation is not only detrimental to progress, but also the legitimacy of the United States on the world stage.
Walking into a door is embarrassing. Walking into a door that you can clearly see is closed is even more embarrassing. The United States shouldn’t help but feel embarrassed for seeing the shutdown coming and doing nothing but bicker as it drew closer. This lack of action despite a looming problem has done nothing to improve our world image. Prior to this, the United States was a beacon of political progress and innovation. Now, it remains a shadow of its former self as elected officials continue to do what they want, rather than what’s best. Countries across the world continue to catch up to the United States economically, but with this current roadblock the world looks upon us as troubled and split as a nation. This divide is unprecedented in comparison to other democratized, “civil” countries. Fortunately, this divide isn’t permanent and can be resolved through the voice of the people.
I wish I could say the solution is simple, but it’s not. Despite this, the solution is attainable. In order to solve the problem we face, individuals who share my concerns need to speak out. Individuals who are tired of inaction and government stalemates need to speak up and stand up. This country needs new faces in politics in order to continue moving forward. These new faces need to understand the consequences of inaction and feel the frustration the American people are put through. Only then can such detrimental partisanship be averted. The government shutdown has caused many problems. A looming debt ceiling deadline threatens our nation’s financial legitimacy. These issues are being held hostage by two parties unwilling to give concessions on either side. Not only does this stain the image of a progressive and united country, but also harms the people who depend on decision-making and action to flourish. Too long this nation has stood still and been held at the mercy of politics. No longer is that necessary. Speak out, stand up, and start moving this nation forward again. It is the only hope we have if we are to end this game.
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