Engaging in Effective Governance Amid Rising Living Costs
President Joe Biden signed the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill into law on November 15, 2021, at a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House. On February 27, 2024, the Biden administration plans to announce 17 initiatives across the United States to improve renewable energy access in rural areas, with a focus on Native American tribes. These projects, costing $366 million, are supported by the infrastructure law established in 2021.
Rising prices present one of the most significant challenges to working families today. The cost of groceries increases with each trip to the store, gas prices exceed $4 per gallon in many regions, and running air conditioners during summer months has become more expensive. Medical and housing costs continue their upward trend as inflation outpaces wage growth. Political parties are zeroing in on these affordability issues as a central theme for the upcoming 2026 election.
Republicans, critics argue, prove unable to resolve these challenges. They focus on a choice-based conflict that drives up oil prices, allocate billions for untrained ICE agents, and offer beneficial deals to President Trump and his close associates while avoiding accountability. Their attempts to worsen the affordability crisis are further underscored by significant cuts to Medicaid, support for tariffs that escalate expenses for families, and refusal to extend tax credits under the Affordable Care Act.
The perception that Washington fails to support working families persists, feeding into the Republican strategy. By prompting disbelief in the efficacy of either party, they hope to energize their base with sensational discussions on social and cultural divides. This view is misleading. Democrats demonstrated effective governance during their majority. In August 2022, Congress forwarded President Biden the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. These signed laws boosted American manufacturing, strengthened supply chains to reduce consumer costs, and addressed energy prices, healthcare expenses, tax filing simplification, and corporate tax fairness. Within a month, Democratic actions on affordability, innovation, and accountability surpassed those of the Republican majority.
The 117th Congress, active from 2021 to 2023, earned acknowledgment as highly productive. Beyond affordability and economic laws in 2022, Democrats enacted a bipartisan infrastructure law in November 2021. This initiative allocated over half a trillion dollars to job creation, improved water and energy systems, and affordable high-speed internet access for rural and underserved areas. The Make It In America plan further exemplified Democratic investment in job creation, cost reductions for families, and infrastructure development essential for a competitive economy.
Skyrocketing prices draw skepticism toward Washington, fostering a belief that Congress no longer functions as intended. Active engagement remains critical. Evaluate those in power based on their achievements and hold accountable those failing to address the moment’s challenges. Steny H. Hoyer retires after over four decades in Congress, reflecting on the progress achieved alongside moments of stagnation.
According to him, divided government need not result in inefficiency. Effective leadership prioritizes consensus, tough decision-making, and focuses on people’s well-being. Future congressional leaders should rise to meet high expectations without succumbing to partisan divides, ensuring Washington continues to deliver. Our nation cannot afford otherwise.
Steny H. Hoyer represented Maryland’s 5th District and served as House majority leader during multiple congressional sessions.
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