Bipartisan Duo Continues Promoting Civility Taskforce

Press Release

Bipartisan Duo Continues Promoting Civility Taskforce

In their continued effort to promote civility amongst members of Congress, Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), the leaders of the House Civility Taskforce, last night took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to hold the first "Civility Hour" debate of 2007. The debate, which was centered on the issue of lawsuit abuse, marked the second Civility Hour since Reps. Capito and Cleaver started the taskforce.

"The freedom to debate is a bedrock principle of our democracy," said Rep. Capito. "However, those of us who have the privilege to serve in Congress would do well to remember that it is acceptable to disagree as long as we remain agreeable. Too often, debate moves away from the respected differences we hold and evolves into overly partisan vitriol that serves no one."

Reps. Capito and Cleaver founded the Civility Taskforce last year with the goal of providing an outlet to educate members of Congress on the importance of civility by highlighting a civil debate on an often divisive issue - like lawsuit abuse - that often leads to a breakdown in civility and an increase in partisan fighting during debate on the House floor.

"I appreciate the leadership shown by my friend, Rep. Cleaver, in helping ensure we continue pursuing this very important and worthwhile goal," said Rep. Capito.

Last night's Civility Hour represented the second call by the bipartisan duo to their colleagues to join the taskforce and participate in future debates.

Rep. Cleaver, a Democrat, represents Missouri's 5th Congressional District. Rep. Capito, a Republican, represents West Virginia's 2nd Congressional District.

Source