Just when a major paper writes that bipartisanship doesn't exist, it's great to see that comity between members of the two major parties can be achieved. The Salem Statesman Journal's Editorial Board notes a prime example of bipartisanship in America: Oregon's Senators Ron Wyden (D) and Gordon Smith (R).

Many politicians claim that they cross political lines to get things done or that they work well with their opponents. Too few really do. That's what makes Wyden and Smith remarkable. Their Democrat-Republican relationship is so genuine, but so rare, that they are the nation's only such senators who regularly hold joint town hall meetings.

That collegial approach may have helped Wyden gain appointment to the Senate Finance Committee, where he joined Smith. Oregon now is the only state with two senators on that powerful committee.

Certainly, Oregon can look to Smith and Wyden for help on Medicare, Medicaid and other financial issues bedeviling the state and nation.

America can look to them as an example of how our government can overcome partisanship and divisiveness: When you put aside your past differences, it's amazing what you can accomplish -- together.

The Democratic/Republican split of Senate seats doesn't always work for a state, but when it does, everyone benefits.