A-AS

Who said, the Federal Government is pointing a loaded gun at the Texas legislature? If you said Rick Perry, you'd be close but no cigar. It was... CHET EDWARDS.

Edwards, who once railed against federal intrusion, is now a leader of the supposed intruders as a high-ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee.

He said there is a natural friction between the state and federal governments that provides a good check on power in our democracy.

"At the end of the day, it's about putting politics aside and working together to serve the best interests of the folks we all represent," Edwards said. "The level of partisanship and lack of civility we see playing out in our politics today on both sides of the aisle is a real concern. To solve big problems — whether it's on the state or federal level — leaders find a way to rise above their differences and put the people's needs first."

Funny how things change.