The mid-terms will polarise an already divided America

VETERAN politicos insist that they have never witnessed such scenes of chaos and pandemonium in Washington, in general, and on Capitol Hill, in particular, where even fierce political rivals try to maintain a certain level of decorum during important partisan debates.

In that context, the US Senate, where lawmakers serve for at least six years, has always been known for its top-rated political civility. Senators who disagree on most issues of the day and may even feel contempt towards each other, would nevertheless exhibit respect towards other lawmakers during deliberations and hearings in that legislative chamber which at times has been compared to Britain's House of Lords.

"I would like to respond to my very good friend from across the aisle and to the esteemed colleague from the great state he represents. But..." is the way senators address each other. And they will praise a candidate for a government position appearing before their committee, lauding his "service to the American people" and complimenting her "beautiful family". And then they would go on to vote against approving nomination of that "great American" for the job.