From one perspective, it is easy to say the Minnesota Legislature failed to do its job during the recently concluded session. Two major bills – public works projects and transportation funding – did not find a consensus. And while it’s possible that a special session may yet be called to try to resolve these matters, it is not clear an agreement is any nearer.

It is said that you don’t want to see the sausage being made, although you may enjoy eating the end product. In the case of the Legislature in recent years, the unsavory process is not even yielding anything for public consumption.

But from another perspective, one could say the system is working just fine. If lawmakers are so steadfast in their beliefs that they cannot compromise, then the responsibility shifts to the voters. An election is on the horizon. While we can say we are happy with our area representatives, there are definitely problems elsewhere around the state.

Where?

In places where lawmakers make their version of perfect the enemy of the good. How’s that? Well, one-half of the Legislature is controlled by Republicans, who are willing to spend money, but with limits. The other half of the Legislature seems committed to runaway spending. One might think that a party (the Democrats) interested in spending more would take what it could get from its political opponents. At least some spending would occur. But that is not what they do. They would rather have nothing. That is irrational and leads to stalemate.

Public works and transportation needs aren’t going away. Public pressure (lobbying and voting) should force some action. We hope recalcitrant lawmakers are paying attention.