Simmering, Not Boiling

Published February 17th, 2008

The House Democratic Caucus and the House Republican Conference, in cooperation with the Democratic Leadership Council and the Congressional Institute, have announced “Congress Debates” – a series of debates between bipartisan groups of Members of Congress.

“Congress Debates” was launched to foster bipartisan debate and discussion of the most important issues facing the country.  From how best to stimulate a slowing economy, to the debate over the best ways to assist middle class families, there are real differences between the political parties.  Too often, those differences are boiled down to sound bites and partisan talking points.
 
“All too often in Washington, partisanship dominates every discussion of every issue. But the challenges facing America - from our struggling economy to our strained military to tens of millions of people without health care - are tremendous, and they deserve serious discussion and attention from both sides of the aisle without becoming a partisan tit-for-tat,” said Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-IL), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.

“These debates present a unique opportunity for the American people to see an extension of the healthy exchange of ideas that occurs every day on the floor of the House of Representatives,” said Rep. Adam Putnam (R-FL), Chairman of the House Republican Conference.