It was a real treat to read the comments in the Jan. 27 issue of the Independent by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, a Democrat who represents Washington’s 6th Congressional District, and U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, a Republican who represents Ohio’s 16th Congressional District.

These two men of differing political viewpoints meet weekly with some 20 like-minded congressional members involved in the Bipartisan Working Group.

They both seem to “get it”: Reaching across the aisle is the best, if not only, way to accomplish goals in solving “American problems.”

They both expressed a desire to do their level-best to serve the folks who voted for them. They realize that there aren’t Democratic roads or Republican schools.

Instead, there are American roads and bridges that are badly in need of repair, and American schools that must be funded and otherwise supported if we hope to prepare our children for the job market and successful careers.

Both congressmen mentioned the “Fiscal State of the Nation” resolution that would allow the members of Congress to receive updates on our fiscal situation.

This resolution should help them be better informed as they represent us citizens.

Members of our military work together to accomplish their missions at various levels.

I am encouraged to think that some of our congressional members are cooperating in a similar fashion.

Ken Bicha

Port Orchard