According to a recent article in the Kansas City Star, Missouri is home to some of the most partisan lawmakers in the country. One representative even goes as far as calling this partisanship a “badge of honor.” The article highlights the increasingly polarized political climate in the state, with lawmakers becoming more entrenched in their party affiliations and less willing to compromise.
The article discusses how this extreme partisanship has led to gridlock in the state government, making it difficult to pass important legislation. In fact, Missouri is one of only a few states that does not have a prescription drug monitoring program, partly due to political disagreements over the issue.
The article also touches on the role that money plays in perpetuating this partisan divide, with special interest groups funding political campaigns and influencing lawmakers’ decisions. It suggests that this influence is contributing to the lack of cooperation and bipartisanship in Missouri’s legislature.
Despite the challenges posed by extreme partisanship, some lawmakers are pushing for more collaboration and compromise. They believe that finding common ground is essential for addressing the state’s most pressing issues, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Overall, the article paints a concerning picture of the political landscape in Missouri, highlighting the need for lawmakers to put aside their partisan differences and work together for the good of the state. It serves as a reminder of the importance of bipartisanship in government and the negative consequences of extreme partisanship.
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