It seems to me that much of the present political gridlock is due to House Republicans in “safe districts” being afraid that if they break ranks the big conservative money will go against them in the next primary election. The entire state of North Dakota is an example of such a district. It is the only way I can see the country being held hostage by what seems to be a self destructive agenda and an extremist minority.
Understanding is not the same as a remedy. If you are a Republican contact your representative to indicate your wishes. If you are for a government shut down, I must accept that this might be your message. I am thinking this would not be a common message, but I may be wrong. Recognize that it is the representative who profits from a voting commitment that is loyal to a party rather than local constituents and not you. Remind him/her that your future vote is what counts and not whether he/she can generate a large fund for the next election cycle.
If you are a Democrat, I assume your present representative already knows how you feel and does not care. Make the effort to make your views known anyway.
The social media some of us invest so much time in must be worth something. It is time to temporarily turn away from our day to day chatter and express our opinions. Time to call out those who represent you and are vague about their positions. Representative Cramer I am talking to you. You seem presently to be more focused on crop insurance than insurance for people. Am I wrong about the money going a different direction unless you stay with the pack? You seem to be mute when it comes to issues of more general import.