No doubt many members of the U.S. Senate, sometimes referred to as the world's most exclusive club, have become acquainted with freshman Sen. Shelley Capito, R-W.Va., since she was sworn in just a few weeks ago. But they learned much more about her this week, when Capito delivered her maiden speech as a senator.
Capito's speech, clearly written with great care, was splendid - at least, from the standpoint of West Virginians and people of like mind in other states.
Capito paid appropriate tribute to the Senate as an institution and thus, to her peers in it. But she also challenged them, making it clear West Virginians expect more of the Senate than they have seen during recent years.
"West Virginians expect the United States Senate to find pragmatic solutions to the momentous problems confronting our country," Capito said, adding, "That is particularly true now, during this period of divided government."
Capito did not need to go into details, because many senators know precisely what she meant. She also did not have to remind them that their constituents understand pragmatism - not partisan politics based on rigid dogma or allegiance to party leaders - too often is missing in Washington.
Setting a theme for her service in the Senate, Capito outlined several priorities. They range from doing something about the nation's infrastructure crisis to ensuring rural communities have broadband access to the Internet, from caring for military veterans to ensuring all Americans have access to health care.
Capito also cited the nation's need for "a commonsense energy policy that utilizes our vast natural resources to provide affordable and reliable energy." Again, no one needed her to explain what she meant.
During her speech, Capito made reference to specific needs in virtually every corner of our state. She wants to "make Washington work for West Virginia," she told her fellow senators.
But - stressing her friendship for and ability to work with Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va. - Capito reminded senators many of their constituents in the other 49 states are worried politics is blocking government from doing better for all Americans.
Capito's speech marked her as a strong defender of West Virginians' interests. It remains to be seen how many of her peers feel the same about what they owe their constituents - and whether they will join her in acting on that dedication.
"We need to roll up our sleeves and deliver," Capito urged her peers.
Precisely.