FEDERAL LAWMAKERS kept their constituents on the edge of their respective seats Friday night. An 11th hour agreement, however, between Republicans and Democrats resulted in a collective sigh of relief nationwide.

The historic accord averted a government shutdown. Such an occurrence would have triggered uncalled pain for millions of Americans, as well as the loss of jobs, slowing down the economic recovery.

We applaud both parties and President Obama for coming to an agreement before chaos would have been ushered in. But Americans should not be subjected to unneeded anxiety and fear by being placed on the cusp of uncertainty.

While we are pleased with the deal, we question on why it could not have been brokered sooner. Partisan politics once again proved the root of the stalemate. That is disconcerting, although we have come to learn that is the nature of the beast in the nation’s capital.

The hotly debated budget agreement calls for $38.5 billion in cuts. That figure is just a starting point as the Republicans were seeking more extensive slashing. Such cuts will eventually be executed, hopefully helping promote job creation.

The late-night accord will keep government operations flowing until the end of September.

When that time arrives we hope both parties have learned from past mistakes. They must avoid a similar situation than the one which just played out.

Republicans and Democrats need to do what is in the best interest of the country.

They need to worry less about partisan politics, instead employing teamwork and a spirit of cooperation in order to best serve all Americans.