Keller @ Large: Why Can't Lawmakers Get Their Work Done On Time?

BOSTON (CBS) - This isn't the first time a president has vented about the slow pace in Congress.

Here in Massachusetts, Gov. Deval Patrick has complained about state budget talks dragging on.

Why can't our lawmakers get their work done on time?

There are a number of explanations, including one-upsmanship and plain old human nature. According to an angry President Barack Obama on Wednesday, it's partly because they lack the self-discipline of his 13- and 10-year-old daughters.

WBZ's Jon Keller is at large:

"Malia and Sasha generally finish their homework a day ahead of time," said Obama on Wednesday. "They don't wait until the night before; they're not pulling all-nighters. Congress can do the same thing."

Congressman Mike Capuano of Somerville was glad the president dissed Republican leaders for delays in talks over raising the debt ceiling.

But, he wasn't so pleased with a swipe the president took at the House of Representatives, now on their eighth week of recess this year.

"He can say whatever he wants. He plays golf, I'm out here talking to you, is this a vacation?" said Rep. Capuano.

Maybe not. But, what about the consistent Capitol Hill pattern often mirrored on Beacon Hill, of never doing today what they can put off 'til tomorrow?

"Government by crisis is not new, unfortunately it's probably necessary and whether it's necessary or not, it's what it is," said Rep. Capuano.

Meanwhile, Massachusetts House Republican leader Brad Jones of North Reading said last-second action can give posturing politicians an excuse to say they fought until the end.

In fairness to the legislators, maybe we, the voters, should also look critically in the mirror. After all, when was the last time anyone got elected on a promise to compromise in order to get things done?