We don’t want to get overly optimistic about a new bipartisan caucus in the state’s General Assembly.

A small group of Republicans and Democrats in the state House and Senate have formed the Pennsylvania Competitiveness Caucus, an effort the lawmakers say is an effort to unify efforts across state government and party lines to strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness efforts.

Competitiveness is something that rural Pennsylvania struggles with, so it’s encouraging to see some state lawmakers who want to work together to collaborate on policies that drive economic growth and make Pennsylvania an attractive place to live and work. The Pennsylvania Competitiveness Caucus will unite legislators from all four caucuses to work together on the shared mission of positioning Pennsylvania as a leader in economic performance.

Our cynical side points out a separate caucus shouldn’t be needed. Pursuing policies that help Pennsylvania bring in new development and create more jobs – particularly in rural communities – should be something lawmakers should be working together on whether they’re Republican or Democrat. Too often politics gets in the way of policies that can help boost our local economies.

But we’re not going to be a wet blanket. Alright, we’ll serve as a damp blanket here. We’re unsure enough lawmakers will join this small group of Competitiveness Caucus members to actually shift state policy much. That’s been our shared experience in past attempts at bipartisanship. Party politics generates headlines and donor money. Bipartisanship requires work and often puts lawmakers at odds with party decision makers.

The idea behind the Competitiveness Caucus is interesting. As of now, neither Rep. Kathy Rapp nor state Sen. Scott Hutchinson is a member. We hope they reconsider that decision. Our region could use the boost.