[Steven W.]

It was poisoned long before Clinton ... the problems just became aggravated during that period. The underlying problem is that Senators were constitutionally appointed by governors in their home states, not elected, to prevent political partisanship from entering the fray and to ensure the body remained deliberative.

[mabelkitty]

You are correct. However, Republicans never had a functional role, and never fought for one until they won the Senate back in 1994.

[drc43]

"The underlying problem is that Senators were constitutionally appointed by governors in their home states, not elected, ..."

The Ultimate Campaign Finance Reform Act....REPEAL THE 17TH AMENDMENT.

[Cboldt]

Before the enactment of the 17th amendment to the US Constitution (ratified April 8, 1913), Senators were chosen by their respective state legisltures. Governors were (and are) permitted to make the equivalent of recess appointments, should the office become vacant during its term. (Article I, Section 3 of the US Constitution).

That "pocket Constituion" of mine is dog-eared, but comes in very handy.