How Congress Has Changed Over Four Decades

Alan Fram: “In the waning moments of Democrats’ four-decade hold on the House, I saw a gesture that seems unthinkable today. On the evening of Nov. 29, 1994, they let the top Republican preside, briefly, over the chamber.”

“It was a display of respect and affection toward Minority Leader Bob Michel (R-IL) retiring after a 38-year House career served entirely under Democrats. He embraced with outgoing Speaker Tom Foley (D-WA). Republicans were taking over in January under the combative Rep. Newt Gingrich (R-GA) abandoning Michel’s consensus-building style.”

“Those feelings between leaders are all but gone. In their place are suspicion and even hostility, most starkly symbolized by magnetometers lawmakers must pass through before entering the House chamber.”