Group 1 - The article discusses the ongoing political turmoil in the U.S. Congress, highlighting a "functional paralysis" due to increasing partisan conflicts and a lack of bipartisan cooperation [1][4][9] - Texas Democrats have staged a mass walkout to oppose a redistricting plan that could add five Republican-leaning congressional seats, indicating a broader national political confrontation [3][4] - The article notes that the current political climate has led to a "talent exodus" among congressional staff, with many considering leaving due to the hostile work environment and low salaries [7][8] Group 2 - The article emphasizes the challenges Congress faces in reaching consensus on government funding, with only a limited time frame to avoid a government shutdown as the new budget year approaches [5][6] - It highlights the deep divisions within the Republican Party, particularly regarding the handling of the Epstein case, which has contributed to legislative paralysis [4][6] - The decline in bipartisan cooperation is attributed to various factors, including the rise of social media, increasing polarization in district maps, and the influence of extreme factions within the parties [9][10]