Goals of the minority

Common ground is the target, at last

WITH A couple of seats flipped and a couple lost, we’d allow that Democratic lawmakers in Arkansas should at least be happy they haven’t lost even more power in this reddest of states. After the last election, they have 24 seats in the House. But they still have goals to accomplish in the coming session, and finding common ground is one of them. Rep.-elect Nicole Clowney (D-Fayetteville) understands well the challenges of the minority. A newly elected lawmaker, she told us she acknowledges the low level of political capital she brings into Little Rock. “You have to use it wisely,” she said. Her attitude is a healthy one, recognizing the difference between arguing against legislation and arguing against a legislator. Mrs. Clowney said she’s not interested in the latter. If only people in Washington would understand. A prime example of Nicole Clowney’s healthy attitude? During legislator orientation in December, she approached several women in the GOP caucus and found a subject they could all agree on: domestic violence protections. Rep.-elect Clowney said she recognizes there is a value in being a voice of dissent on some legislation, but heading into her first session, there’s benefits to be had in listening and learning before engaging in the legislative process. While some Democrats may not see it this way, being made the minority party over the last few legislative sessions has sharpened their senses a bit. They’re learning how to use what little power they have effectively. It’s almost like that common ground thing is a really good idea. We’d certainly like to see more of it.