Jasper Needs to Set an Example

New House Speaker Shawn Jasper should appoint committee chairs from both parties in recognition of the fact that he was elected by a coalition of Democrats and Republicans. If he wants his Speakership to mean something, to set an example in this era of incivility and gridlock, he needs to emphasize merit not politics. If he does't do that - or something equally bi-partisan and courageous his speakership will be just business-as-usual. If he does something bold he will be a national star in the political firmament. An example to be held up to all of the other states. I wouldn't be surprised to see him on national newscasts as an example of how working together can make a difference. His supporters will honor him, his opponents will respect him and the country will celebrate him. It is a risk worth taking for him. A risk that will pay huge dividends for Jasper and for New Hampshire, making us a model of civility at the outset of the 2016 primary race when all eyes will be turned our way.

Reprinted from Facebook to provide an historical overview of the process.After I wrote this the Chair of the NH Democratic Party forwarded the idea to House Democrats and they successfully struck a deal with Representative Shawn Jasper.

After I wrote this the Chair of the NH Democratic Party forwarded the idea to House Democrats and they successfully struck a deal with Representative Shawn Jasper.