For the first time in nearly four decades, Texans will be represented in the U.S. Senate by two men of opposing political parties.

In 1988, the men in the hot seat were Democrat Lloyd Bentsen and Republican Phil Gramm. They could find common ground on occasion. In January 2027, though, the differences between the senators are gaping, they’re huge. I would guess that two senators couldn’t be farther apart in ideology than Republican Ted Cruz and Democrat James Talarico.

They are fierce partisans. However, I need to remind them what the rest of us know, which is that Texans of all stripes are suffering in unison right now with an economy in turmoil, the nation at war with Iran and a deeply divided Congress that can’t seem to find its backside with both hands.

Therefore, the message of the day is this: It is time to work together Sen. Cruz and Sen.-elect Talarico. The election is over. It was fought hard. Cruz had some pretty mean things to say about Talarico, who in turn aimed his fire mostly at Donald Trump.

I haven’t heard of any outreach from Cruz or Talarico. Neither man so far has said out loud what many of us want to hear — that they’re willing and able to work with the other side to find common solutions to common problems. Indeed, all Texans are concerned about the future of our water supply, how the feds will pay for future farm policies, will there be federal money available for highway construction. We all want Congress to stop bickering, backbiting and bellowing.

It’s your time, gentlemen.