US House of Representatives-Hang Together or Hang Separately

Those who have even the smallest interest in American history can recall the words of Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation's founding fathers, when he was asked about the infighting that was holding back the ratification of the Declaration of Independence: "Gentlemen, if we do not hang together, we will most certainly hang separately". Putting those words into a modern context, more specifically the recent change of political power in the United States House of Representatives, they take on an air of prophecy. Upon assuming the legislative majority in the House, Democrats have pledged to put aside partisan differences with the Republican House members, and the Executive Branch, to effectively tackle the most pressing issues facing our nation, chief among them the war in Iraq. This is essential at this pivotal point in history for several key reasons.

Domestically, the US must unite as one nation, dedicated to the protection of the homeland against acts of terrorism that would be aimed at America from any number of international foes. While it is convenient for those on the homefront to glibly say that what happens "over there" is not important and does not affect the average citizen, nothing is farther from the truth. Rather, what happens "over there" will eventually happen with alarming and deadly frequency "over here" without appropriate action and due diligence. If we, as Americans, are preoccupied with deciding who is right in political matters, we will sadly neglect the need to do what is right in these same matters- again, Franklin's words ring out loudly and clearly.

Internationally, the policies of the US must work toward the promotion of world peace and avoid the chaos and provocation that seems to exemplify the American approach to world politics of late. America, while it has a duty to police the world to a certain extent, cannot fairly be expected to shoulder all of the burden of this ever-growing task; therefore, priorities must be identified and pursued with prudence. This again presents an excellent opportunity for the political parties to work together as one for mutual benefit.

The point to be made here is this-all Americans face a threat to life and liberty, at home and abroad. As 2007 moves forward, the US government must put aside the petty politics of the past, focus on the ultimate goals of the nation, and collaborate to achieve them. If not, we all will reap what we sow, and may or may not live to regret the ignorance of what Benjamin Franklin offered to his countrymen so many years ago.