By IPR/Williams
Springfield, IL – A southern Illinois Congressman says he's pleased to see politicians toning down the rhetoric, especially when it comes to personal attacks.
But John Shimkus says there is still room for lawmakers to disagree. The focus on political dialogue grew more intense after the shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. The Collinsville Republican says that tragic event forced himself and colleagues to keep their tone more civil.
"But I also think people want policy makers who stand on principle and believe in what they stand for," says Shimkus. It's that critical balance of being sincere, emotive , fighting for your cause without being derogatory and attacking other people's motives."
Shimkus says there is a lot of friendship across the aisle in Congress. Some of that will be on display this week when several Democrats and Republicans sit side by side during the President's State of the Union Address.
As for the President's speech, Shimkus expects Obama to try to appeal to moderates. Although, Shimkus says he's waiting to see what the Administration does in coming months, adding that actions will speak louder than words.
