Debate over health care repeal: five gauges of House civility

Wednesday’s vote to repeal health care reform provided a formidable test of whether lawmakers are adopting a more civil tone.

3. Random acts of bipartisanship

J. Scott Applewhite/AP/File
Rep. John Conyers revived Congressional grace notes.

All those grace notes of civility that oil Senate debate – “my good friend,” “the distinguished senator” – have, over time, faded in the House. But not entirely. Rep. John Conyers (D) of Michigan responded to a GOP claim that big government was to blame for the health crisis by congratulating Rep. Lamar Smith (R) of Texas for taking his place as chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

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