St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

Brad Paquette, a member of the Michigan House of Representatives, addressed partisanship and accountability in recent posts on his social media account. Paquette's comments reflect on the political climate in both state and federal government, as well as his own approach to legislative work.

On October 1, 2025, Paquette wrote: "On the state and federal level, there is a lot of blaming the Democrats or blaming the Republicans, but with very little specifics.

I do my best not to do that and will fully refrain from doing so in every future commentary. Please give me a rebuke if you see otherwise.

I will".

Later that day, he discussed voting dynamics within the Michigan House: "In the Michigan House there, at times, is a strong mentality that you cannot vote with the other side, on anything, no matter what.

I have been the deciding vote for 'the other side' and know there are many across the aisle who have the fortitude to do the same on legislation" (October 1, 2025).

On October 2, 2025, Paquette commented on political accountability regarding mistakes: "Is it political suicide to admit error today?

Errors were made during COVID lockdowns w/ 0 apologies. Errors are currently being made concerning other significant matters.

Eisenhower had a failure letter drafted before the invasion of Normandy.

Americans still have immense".

Paquette’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about partisanship in American politics. The phenomenon of party-line voting has been observed widely in legislatures across the United States. During recent sessions in Michigan’s legislature and elsewhere, lawmakers have faced criticism for adhering strictly to party positions rather than seeking bipartisan solutions or admitting policy missteps. In addition, public discussions continue about government responses during events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and whether officials should acknowledge errors publicly.