President-elect Barack Obama has promised to reach out to both Democrats and Republicans to help remedy the ills of this country. While it is certainly a worthy goal, one wonders if, in reality, it is possible.

The soon-to-be-ex-President George W. Bush began his 8-year stint by making a similar promise. There was a brief coming together of both political parties right after the tragic days of 9/11 but, as we all know, this quickly fell apart.

I don’t doubt that Obama has a sincere desire to bring those of differing views in government together, for the good of the people of this land, but I am somewhat skeptical that he can actually accomplish this.

The reason our country’s main legislative body has been sarcastically labeled "The Do-Nothing Congress" is that they spend so much time dividing into separate partisan camps, each with its own self-serving set of personal interests. Rarely do politicians cross party lines and those of them that do face the ire of their colleagues.

This has always been the case in American politics, but see where it has gotten us.

Perhaps it is about time that those who enjoy the prestige, perks and privileges of being members of Congress finally begin to do the job we voted them into office for. It is time for them to make things better for all citizens, not just for fat-cat corporations begging for bailouts, due to blatant excesses and shoddy management.

As the 2008 election proved, voters are weary of having their needs addressed by only empty rhetoric, broken promises and lack of action. By putting ineffective folks out of office, Americans hope to finally have individuals in place who will fulfill the purpose of their jobs. We are looking for people who are dedicated to turning around our economy, bringing our soldiers home, providing help for those who cannot afford health care and other necessities of life, etc.

Maybe we will actually begin to see Democrats and Republicans do what is best for the entire country, not just for their own party.

However, I wouldn’t hold my breath, folks.

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