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Mr. Merkley has already been making statements about the importance of "breaking gridlock" in the Senate. While I certainly hope he pushes aggressively for his policy agenda, I am concerned that Mr. Merkley isn't sensitive to the unique institutional history of the U.S. Senate. If he wants strong majority control, he should have run for the House. The Senate's cultures and procedures are strongly protective of minority rights, encouraging compromise and negotiation. I sincerely hope that Mr. Merkley pays close attention during new Senator orientation and upholds the long history of minority rights in the Senate.

posted 4 years, 7 months ago
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