We have been going from one extreme to the other since at least 2000, and this is where constant extremism ultimately leads. There is a way for this to end well, and that is for congress to assert itself, reverse the flow of power from congress to the executive branch over the last eight decades, and restore a balance of power. But that requires that both sides of the aisle have to work together, and I really don't see the likes of Schumer and Pelosi burying the hatchet with the likes of McConnell and Ryan. Maybe what needs to happen is for the rank and file in congress to assert themselves.

I have congressional contacts on both sides of the aisle who have told me that probably 90% of congress actually get along and understand the issues, and could resolve most of them if only we could lock the president and congressional leaders up long enough for them to do it. For example, back during the shutdown/sequester time frame, I heard from both sides of the aisle that the solution was easy if only we could get Obama and Reid and Pelosi and Boehner and McConnell to quit posturing and shut up. And that has been going on for some time through multiple administrations. I really think congress has to take back control. I'd be perfectly happy if the presidency became a figurehead, and in fact I think that's the best possible outcome.

I think our system is flawed and largely to blame. I thought going from smoke-filled rooms to primaries was a good idea when it happened. But those primaries have become dominated by the loony extremes on both sides. Back when the political bosses made the decisions in back room, electability was always the primary concern (or else they were out of a job) so they tended to choose moderates who had a chance to appeal to the most voters. Now the chances of a moderate getting either party's nomination are pretty much zero, zilch, nada. If we're not going to be able to elect mainstream presidents, maybe the best answer is to take power back from the president and return it to congress.