Football Field Fosters Bipartisan Bonds in Congress

Congressmen Tackle Issues Off the Field Through Football

In a rare display of unity, Democratic Congressman Jimmy Panetta of California and Republican Congressman Tracy Mann of Kansas are finding common ground not through legislation, but through the gridiron. The two lawmakers co-captained the Congressional Football Team, which recently played its annual game against the U.S. Capitol Police. While the team didn’t secure a win this year, the experience highlighted the power of sports to bridge political divides and raise crucial funds for charity.

More Than Just a Game: Charity and Camaraderie

The Congressional Football Game is more than just an athletic contest; it serves a dual purpose of supporting impactful charities and fostering bipartisan relationships. Congressman Panetta emphasized that the game’s goals extend far beyond the scoreboard. “The fact is is that there are other goals when it comes to the Congressional Football Game,” he stated. “It’s about the charities that we support.” This year’s game successfully raised over $350,000 for organizations like the Capitol Police Memorial Fund, the Boys and Girls Club of Washington D.C., and programs supporting military children.

Sweat Equity Builds Bridges

Congressman Mann highlighted how the shared experience of football practice and games helps lawmakers connect on a personal level. “You get to know people in a way you wouldn’t otherwise,” Mann explained. “Part of the problem in Washington, D.C. is that people just don’t know each other.” He believes that the physical exertion and teamwork required during practices, especially in the early morning sun, break down party barriers. “When you’re sweating, you know, in the mornings at practice and the sun’s coming up, it doesn’t matter what party you’re from, there’s commonalities that you reach,” he added.

Debating Key Legislation: DHS Funding and Voter ID

Beyond the football field, Panetta and Mann engaged in discussions about pressing national issues. The conversation turned to the proposed reforms for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), prompted by a potential government shutdown. The White House has put forward proposals including body cameras for officers and limiting enforcement at sensitive locations like hospitals and schools. Mann found these initial proposals “pretty reasonable,” though he stressed the importance of examining the details.

Congressman Panetta, drawing from his background as a former prosecutor, expressed that while the proposed reforms touch on some key areas, they might not go far enough. He stressed the need for basic, common-sense law enforcement procedures. “If you’re going to call yourself law enforcement, then you well better act like law enforcement,” Panetta stated, referencing concerns about agencies acting with impunity. He called for measures such as judicial warrants before entering homes and ensuring body cameras are used with proper protocols.

The discussion also addressed the SAVE Act, which would require proof of citizenship to register to vote and a photo ID to vote in federal elections. Mann argued that such measures are necessary, pointing out that even a small percentage of non-citizen votes can impact close elections. “Every vote matters,” he said, noting that Kansas has long had similar requirements. He described the bill as “common sense” and “widely popular.”

Congressman Panetta, however, voted against the SAVE Act, viewing it as a barrier to voting rather than a solution to a widespread problem. He stated, “The SAVE Act, unfortunately, is about putting up barriers. It’s making it more difficult and tougher and actually going after something that really isn’t an issue when it comes to undocumented people voting.” He emphasized his support for voter identification but found the SAVE Act’s requirements too burdensome.

Finding Common Ground Amidst Low Public Trust

Both lawmakers acknowledged the current low public trust in Congress, with recent polls showing only 16% approval. Panetta attributed this to the public perception of partisan shouting matches on television, contrasting it with the reality of many lawmakers who strive to get things done. “For the most part, there are people on both sides of the aisle that actually come here to work together to get stuff done,” he asserted. He believes that building trust requires lawmakers to get to know each other and focus on similarities rather than just differences.

Mann echoed this sentiment, stating that finding common ground starts with personal connection. He also noted that Congress often reflects the divisions in the country. “We’ve got to keep talking about the areas. We have a lot of common ground,” Mann advised. He pointed to potential areas of agreement such as housing affordability and infrastructure, noting that “roads, bridges aren’t Republican or Democrat. They need to be done for the good of the citizens.” The lawmakers also found common ground as co-chairs of the Future Farmers of America Caucus, demonstrating that shared interests can transcend party lines.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Bipartisan Efforts

The success of initiatives like the Congressional Football Team offers a blueprint for how collaboration can be fostered in Washington. As lawmakers continue to debate critical issues, the personal relationships built through activities like football may prove invaluable. Future efforts to find common ground on legislation, particularly in areas like agriculture and infrastructure, will be key to rebuilding public trust and demonstrating effective governance.

Source: Bipartisan lawmakers find common ground ‘comes naturally’ through football (YouTube)