Washington DC - Democratic Congressman Jared Golden of Maine recently set his party off after he endorsed his Republican colleague Mike Lawler of New York for re-election.
In an op-ed published on Monday, Golden praised Lawler for helping him fight for his state's fishing community by working to pass the Lobsterman Protection Act.
"Mike Lawler has been a true partner to me and a friend to fishing families he will never represent," Golden wrote.
"I strongly back him, and I hope voters send him back to work. Wherever you live, find the members who pass laws with the other party, and keep them."
In response, Lawler – who is also endorsed by President Donald Trump – said it was "an honor and a privilege" to accept the support, explaining that while they may come from opposite ends of the political spectrum, they both believe "people should come before one's party."
"If more members on both sides of the aisle took that approach more often, the country would be better off for it," he added.
In statements to The Washington Sun, several Democratic colleagues slammed Golden – who has come under criticism for recent votes against his party's interest – over the endorsement.
One House Democrat told the outlet Golden "doesn't sound like a Democrat to me," adding his record reflects that. Another accused him of making a "winnable seat" more difficult.
In a similar incident, Democratic Senator John Fetterman praised Trump and endorsed a MAGA Republican during the GOP midterm convention earlier this month.