It has been seven days since our government decided to stop acting like a kindergarten classroom and come together hours before our country fell into default. Through this whole ordeal, I watched our president take a more aggressive approach than he has in the past. He is now demanding the cooperation of Congress, rather than trying his hardest to beg everyone to get along. I personally am a fan of this approach, even if it is in the taste of bad politics.

Since his induction into office in 2008, President Obama has been running into a big wall: an uncooperative Congress, Republicans and Democrats alike. They have voiced their opinions against the president and his policies. It has been made pretty clear to Obama and the nation that they disapprove, but what they refuse to realize is that he is president – that will not change for another two years. Plainly speaking: Get over it and do your job. You are not paid by taxpayers to continually speak your distaste for the president; you are paid to work with him.

In his speech following the shutdown, Obama expressed his disappointment in the attitude of Congress. They have the concept that there are winners and losers when it comes to deciding on the fate of America, putting the life of countless citizens in the balance so their political party can feel vindicated.

“You don’t like a particular policy or a particular president? Then argue for your position. Go out there and win an election,” Obama said.

This is hands down the take-away message from the president’s speech. Until any member in Congress decides to actually put their name in the ring, they need to look past the religious, economic and social beliefs that divide the parties and try to build America with more jobs and opportunities.

If Republicans feel that Obama is challenging them, they would be correct. He is challenging them to do a better job at defending why they do not like his policies. He is challenging them to prove to the American people that their motives are fueled by genuine concern for our country and not just greed. Although the government shutdown did not solely occur at the hands of the GOP, it seems that they were the ones who were resistant to help with its resolve. So if Congress must play this game of winners and losers, they lost. They lost badly.

So now that the crisis is over, what is next? Will another fight break out on the playground of Capitol Hill? Congress must realize its responsibility lies with the people of America, not to their own political parties. Congress must work with whomever is in office, not drive them out. In America we have an election process that lets the people decide. The people have decided who they want to lead the country, now it is Congress’ job to work with him to progress America, not fight over it as if it was the last toy in the sandbox.

Amber Patterson is a junior majoring in public relations. Her column runs biweekly.