The 118th Congress is expected to be one of the least productive in recent American history, mainly due to heightened partisanship since Republicans took control of the House of Representatives in the 2022 midterms. Despite this, some House Democrats have notably worked across party lines, showcasing bipartisanship in an otherwise divided legislature. This analysis highlights the Democrats who have been most successful in collaborating with their Republican counterparts.
The Lugar Center and McCourt School of Public Policy have been tracking bipartisan efforts since 2014 through their bipartisan index. While 2023 saw a minor increase in bipartisan activities, the overall environment remains highly polarized. Some Democrats, however, have continued to push for cooperation, which is expected to be crucial for any legislative progress in the upcoming 119th Congress.
Importance During Election Year
In an election year, American voters decide not just the presidency but also the control of Congress. With the possibility that one party could control the House and another the Senate, knowing the key players who are willing to collaborate across party lines becomes essential. Effective bipartisan efforts could dictate the success of the next Congress in passing meaningful legislation.
Chris Pappas Leads in Bipartisanship
Chris Pappas, representing New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District since 2019, is the top bipartisan Democrat and third overall in the House. Pappas is a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus and has highlighted his commitment to bipartisan policies.
No political party has a monopoly on good ideas, and policies that put the needs of everyday people first are found on the left and the right.
Pappas faces a primary challenge in September 2024 but is widely expected to prevail and retain his seat in the general election.
Don Davis’s First Term Efforts
Don Davis of North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District has had a productive first term, sponsoring or co-sponsoring nearly 800 bills. His background in the U.S. Air Force influences his bipartisan approach.
When I served our country in the U.S. Air Force, our focus was always our mission, not our political party. These principles continue to guide me in my elected service.
Davis faces a challenging re-election due to North Carolina’s new redistricting map for 2024.
Susie Lee and Her Bipartisan Commitments
Susie Lee, representing Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District since 2019, is the vice-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Women’s Issues.
I’m proud to have been named Nevada’s most bipartisan Member of Congress and one of the top ten most bipartisan lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives. I will continue working with my Republican colleagues to help Nevada’s families, small businesses, seniors, and veterans.
Nevada’s swing state status makes Lee’s seat highly competitive, adding pressure to her re-election campaign.
The most bipartisan Democrats generally represent swing districts and are members of both the Problem Solvers Caucus and the New Democrat Coalition. Similar to their Republican counterparts, they find that being in a competitive district necessitates greater cooperation across party lines. However, several of these bipartisan Democrats might not return to the House in 2025, either due to pursuing other political offices or facing tough re-election battles.
Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey and Abigail Spanberger of Virginia, who are also highlighted for their bipartisan efforts, are seeking different political offices, with Gottheimer likely running for governor and Spanberger pursuing Virginia’s governorship. This turnover could significantly impact the level of bipartisanship in the next Congress.
Given the likely divided legislature following the 2024 elections, the role of bipartisan members will be even more significant in shaping the legislative landscape. Their ability to bridge the partisan divide could determine the effectiveness of Congress in addressing key issues facing the nation.
