Dear editor:
For those of us who have been around for quite a few decades, “Discipline” was always a word that we associated primarily with children — parents disciplined their kids; teachers disciplined their students.
In the 21st Century, “Discipline”, or the lack thereof, is a practice easily associated with adults. As adults, we are understandably averse to being disciplined by other adults.
Yet, our lack of self-discipline in our relationships with others often begs for imposed discipline.
This lack of self-discipline clearly manifests itself in much of our political process. Just look at our U.S. Congress as a blatant example.
A majority are incapable of, or unwilling to, set aside their passions or egos to come together on issues that clearly impact all American Citizens.
Just this month, videos of an effort to bring members together for a moment of prayer over the brutal murder of Charlie Kirk, a political advocate praised by some and despised by others, showed a picture of utter chaos.
Closer to home, I have personally experienced the dramatic decline of the discipline that formerly defined the Wyoming Legislature.
Interim committee meetings that were once limited to specific topics assigned by leadership have become public arenas for members to expound on and propose legislation on topics of personal passion.
This will inevitably lead to a plethora of bills coming before the 2026 Budget Session that should be dedicated to passage of a budget carefully crafted to meet the need of Wyoming citizens while assuring a stable financial climate for state and local governments.
Legislative leadership positions, once a recognition of years of strong dedicated service, are now too often based on commitment to a narrow political philosophy.
It is these leaders who are primarily responsible for building and inspiring functioning legislative bodies that are dedicated to reaching mutually acceptable outcomes while respecting diverse philosophies.
I believe that our current leaders are capable of meeting this challenge. I urge them to place achievement of this outcome at the top of their “To Do” list for 2026.
Sincerely,
Jim Magagna, Cheyenne
