A CIVIL CONGRESS

It perhaps is a sign of our times that politicians in Washington feel the need to sign a pledge to conduct the government's business in a dignified manner.

A group of conservative Republicans and Democrats recently signed a "Civility Pledge" intended to clean up the image of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Complaints about partisan bickering in the House are overblown. Bipartisanship on issues of legislation are overrated if such cooperation leads to bigger, less efficient government and bad laws. But there is a difference between political or ideological differences and the cheap shots that emanate from some of the heated arguments on the floor of the House. When true debate degenerates into incivility it tarnishes the public's image of and faith in Congress.

To restore the public trust in government, the 40-member Mainstream Conservative Alliance, known as Republican Blue Dogs, and the 21-member Conservative Coalition, known as Democratic Blue Dogs, is leading the effort at civility by urging their House colleagues to honor the signed promise.

Rep. Bill Emerson of Cape Girardeau, co-chairman of the Conservative Alliance, is one of the leaders of the civility pledge movement. Those signing the pledge agree to respect constituents through proper conduct and show respect for all colleagues regardless of ideology or personal feelings.

By cooperating, not only in legislation but through civil discourse, the congressional Blue Dogs -- a significant voting bloc -- serve an important role in moving government past the status quo that voters have become so disillusioned with.