We happen to think that New York Congressman Michael Lawler (R-Pearl River) is an effective, articulate lawmaker, who is often willing to work in a bipartisan manner.
But we were a bit taken aback by Lawler’s attempt to get a viral moment by standing outside of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies’ (D-Brooklyn) door and confronting him with a petition in hand, pushing Jeffries to sign onto a bill to keep the government open.
The two thereupon got into a shouting match.
We think it’s great to have spirited debate, but it should be with proper decorum on the floor of the House.
Getting in the face of political opposition with cameras in the wings is not the way to do it. Any erosion of the already low level of civility that exists in politics on Capitol Hill should not be applauded.
We think Lawler can win this argument on its merits, but we all lose when office holders create in-your-face confrontations that are orchestrated for viral clicks.