OPINION:
Today gives lesson to the warning of the Founding Fathers and George Washington’s farewell address about the danger of factions (now known as political parties and caucuses). The Founders saw factions as oriented for dominance and power over other factions, which would result in public division, distraction from good governance and general public unhappiness.
The seating of members of Congress promotes such factionalism. A frequently used phrase heard is “on our side of the aisle,” as though the major political parties were two teams squared off on opposite sides before a big game.
I suggest the start of this next session of Congress have members not seated together by party, but randomly or alphabetically situated regardless of party affiliation. Such integration would help foster collegiality and remind members that they are mere individuals chosen to represent their district or state, not chosen to be in a group to serve a team.
JAMES K. JEANBLANC
Arlington
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