Retiring House Speaker Paul Ryan said Monday that technology, moral relativism, and identity politics have contributed to a downward trajectory for the institution of Congress.
Speaking at THE WEEKLY STANDARD’s Midwest Conservative Summit, Ryan told TWS editor-in-chief Stephen Hayes that Congress has gotten worse since he first went to Washington nearly 20 years ago.
“I think it’s the rise of technology, generally speaking, on top of the fact that moral relativism has become more pervasive in society, upon the fact that identity politics is being practiced on all sides these days,” Ryan said.
When he first was elected, Ryan said, constituents who would be affected by legislation used to fax and call their representatives with feedback, but now those communications are instantaneous, and more confrontational. He argued a thriving business model exists promoting outrage and anxiety, which are “good for ratings,” driving clicks and views in the media.
“That bubbles up into Congress,” said Ryan.
Hayes asked a follow-up: Would you say the president is typical of the kind of moral relativism you described?
“Nice try,” Ryan answered, chuckling. “I’m not going to take that.”
The speaker pivoted, saying that he and Trump have differing political temperaments and styles.
“I do a better job talking to the president than if I were to go out to the media and talk about the president,” said Ryan. “I get more done that way.”
