Why America's Extreme Politics Will Likely Get Even Worse

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http://www.alternet.org/story/155924/why_america%27s_extreme_politics_will_likely_get_even_worse/

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Just when you thought political incivility and partisan gridlock couldn’t get any worse, get ready for more of the same or worse next year.

In state capitals, the triple-impact of term limits, 2010's political swing to the Tea Party right and the scourge of redistricting are poised to take a devastating toll, leaving state legislatures filled with the largest class of inexperienced ideological lawmakers in years. Nationwide, one-half or more are projected to have less than two years experience.

Moreover, as lawmakers are forced to step away from their severe campaign rhetoric and start governing, many will turn to the people with the longest institutional memories: lobbyists who are aligned with their partisan viewpoints.

Lost in this scenario, which has been discussed in magazines and Web sites catering to state legislators, is the art of compromise to serve the public.

"The biggest thing over the years has been the change in statesmanship," Colorado legislator-turned-lobbyist Gayle Berry recently told the Denver Post. "Some of the lawmakers who had worked with governors in a different party worked in a more bipartisan manner."