NU Online News Service, April 14, 1:42 p.m. EST

WASHINGTON—Independent agents should use their influence on their elected representatives in Washington, D.C. to urge a moderate course on issues and "get something done," says Rep. Heath Shuler, D-N.C.

The comments came in an address during the Young Agents and InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon—part of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America Legislative Conference and Convention held here.

Shuler addresses what he says is a partisan gulf that he believes is doing much harm to America because political extremes on the right and left are not engaged in finding solutions to the problems the nation faces today.

"We have to bring this country back to the center," Shuler says.

The political divisions, he continues, fueled by the "entertainment media" that promotes partisan bickering over a discussion to develop solutions, is leading America to become a second-rate country.

As a Blue Dog Democrat, a group of conservative Democrats who promote an agenda of fiscal responsibility, he says it is necessary for the current rancor to be abandoned and for politicians to work at compromise and finding solutions.

"If you can, encourage your member of Congress to compromise. Say to them, 'I know you may differ,' and they may say that they don't know how [to compromise], just tell them that the Blue Dog Democrats will show them how," Shuler advises. "We'll show you how and we'll push as hard as we can for policies we believe in, but at the end of the day we have to get something done."

As a former insurance agent, whose family has been in the business for a few generations, he notes how difficult being an insurance producer is and the importance of bringing that knowledge to Capitol Hill. He says many in Congress don't know what being an entrepreneur is like.

By being in Washington for the IIABA's event, agents and brokers give their representatives an opportunity to learn from real business people how decisions and legislation "that looks good on paper" can have an impact on the independent agent's business, Shuler says.

"Far too often, members of Congress cannot see the personal side of the issue," Shuler remarks.