Since the election the Democrats, through their irresponsible and disrespectful colleague in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, have insulted Republicans on countless fronts. They demonize us, misrepresent our goals, exaggerate consequences of potential legislation, and have no interest in treating their counterparts in the Republican Party with simple courtesy. They repeatedly state their disdain for Donald Trump and his administration, criticize every statement that is issued and find nothing to affirm about the other side.

In one way, that’s not surprising. Polarization has risen to a new high. Recalcitrance is practiced like a way of life, and any sign of cooperating is condemned. But I’d hoped that at least a modicum of respect would be shown, however insincere and resented it might be, on the House and Senate floors. I’ve thrown that hope out the window.