A different metaphor would suit what a CR does. I suggest we dig up an old slang word of American origin, an Americanism suited to this uniquely American malpractice. I suggest we call a CR a “jackleg.” A jackleg is a temporary fix like a stopgap, but it is a fraudulent one from those who are “incompetent, unskillful, or dishonest.”

When we use the right metaphor, we will get the right reaction. CRs should offend Americans. CRs are not a natural product of the democratic process; they are an invented license to fail in the democratic process. They are not praiseworthy examples of “bipartisanship”; they are case studies in destructive collusion and alibi-making.

We should forbid jacklegs, plain and simple. We should demand that Congress does its job and passes a budget by October 1 each year. If it cannot, government should be required to shut down, revealing to all that legislators have been unable to do the profession granted them by the Constitution and constituency.

Let’s face reality here. Congress is not doing its job if there are no appropriations bills passed before Oct. 1st. I agree, they should let the government shut down until the bills are passed. One bill for one subject. One bill for one appropriation. Radical, yes, necessary, yes, lets do it this way for a change.