Looking Ahead To The Next President And Congress
Op-Ed
With the large voter turnout nationwide and the sky-high enthusiasm in Nebraska, the American people sent a resounding message around the world about the strength of our democracy.
Millions of Americans packed polling places to cast their votes for local and state races, and for two highly qualified presidential candidates to lead our nation the next four years. Our resilient American democracy - that belief that we are best governed when we freely choose who should govern us - is a brighter beacon today.
Building a Better America
After a hard fought campaign, we now have a new president-elect - Barack Obama -- and a lot of hard work ahead. It's time to set aside the slogans and sound bites to unite behind him and move forward to build a better America.
For my part, I'll work with the new President and his Administration exactly the same as I have with President Bush and his Administration. I will support the President when I think he's right, I will oppose him when I feel I must for the good of Nebraskans and the nation, and I will not obstruct progress. I will continue working across party lines to get our government working again for the American people. It is my hope that the new Administration will take a bi-partisan approach to governing as well.
#1 Priority
In fact, Priority One for me will be to rebuild a working government; a working government that overcomes the dysfunction that often marred the last eight years.
At this critical time in our nation's historywith our economy faltering, with millions of American families worried about health care, education, jobs and just paying daily bills, with wars underway on two fronts, with continuing threat of terrorism and turbulence in many countries - we can't afford more bickering and blame.
Energy Security
Once inaugurated, the new Administration should quickly address: energy security and independence, stabilizing our financial system and economy, creating new jobs and making health care coverage more affordable and available. On the international front, the Administration should, as promised, renew American diplomacy to improve our alliances around the world.
With last week's vote, the media is focusing on Democrats' gains in the House and Senate, and warning about one-party rule. Rather than governing by party, or by trying to get just over the 60-vote threshold in the Senate to force action on issues, I believe we should chart a new course.
Govern by Consensus
We should reach out to attract 70, 75, or even 80 votes on major bills in the Senate. I hope the House follows suit. Republicans, Democrats and Independents should compete on the field of ideas. Then, work to find common ground. Washington needs a new way of doing business---governing by consensus. That's a change many would believe in.
This will take the cooperation of both sides, but the tone set by the President is the key to bi-partisan cooperation. I think the American people sent a clear message Tuesday: they want problems solved, not put off, and they want us to work together.
http://bennelson.senate.gov/news/details.cfm?id=304900&&
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