The WSJ has a piece titled How the Capitol Riot Turned a Partisan Congress ‘Toxic’. This part of the piece, in particular, caught my attention. The comments — from lawmakers themselves — confirm my views on how the communications revolution fuels political fragmentation and the decline of American government. I’ll have a NYT piece coming out on this soon.

In interviews, many lawmakers blame current tensions on social-media-driven fundraising, often fueled by hyperpartisan or inflammatory statements. Some new members come into office with large followings and the ability to raise huge sums of money independently. Those members have been willing to publicly break with their party’s leadership or harshly criticize other members.

“You’re often awarded for the most extreme things you say and the biggest attacks you launch,” said Rep. Kevin Brady (R., Texas), who has served more than two decades and isn’t seeking reelection.

A list of the top 10 fundraisers in the House, according to Federal Election Commission data, includes some of the most outspoken partisans in both parties.

“Newer members say, ‘you know, was it always like this?’ I said, ‘it was never like this before,’” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D., Ill.), who has been in Congress since 1999.