As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a bipartisan pair of senators, Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.), are making a case for crossing the political aisle and demonstrating the courage to prioritize national interests over political expediency.

Speaking on ABC News' "This Week," the senators highlighted the importance of bipartisan collaboration in a deeply divided nation, suggesting that the principles of service and courage, often associated with military backgrounds, are essential for effective governance.

Senator Kelly, a retired Navy captain and former NASA astronaut, stated that elected officials must sometimes take stands they know are right for the country's progress, even if these actions could be personally detrimental politically. Senator Young, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, drew parallels between the courage required in military service and the courage needed in Congress, describing it as the willingness to be misunderstood and to undertake unpopular but necessary actions.

Both senators are featured in the new book "Courage Can Save US" by Rye Barcott. The book profiles ten elected officials, nine of whom are military veterans, who are part of the organization With Honor. This group aims to recruit and support bipartisan veterans running for office, encouraging them to pledge integrity, civility, and courage, including the commitment to work across party lines.

Kelly and Young have notably collaborated on legislative efforts to strengthen the U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries, aiming to counter China's growing influence at sea. Their partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing critical national issues through cooperation.

Their bipartisan efforts have not been without challenges. The senators recalled an instance where the Trump administration targeted Kelly over a video he and other Democrats recorded regarding U.S. service members' rights to refuse illegal orders. This situation led to legal battles, including the Justice Department's failure to secure indictments against the lawmakers and a judge blocking an attempt to reduce Kelly's military rank and retirement pay, citing a violation of his First Amendment rights.

Author Rye Barcott, co-founder and CEO of With Honor, noted that the organization has supported over 100 veterans, with approximately 50 currently serving in Congress. These individuals take a pledge to uphold civility and integrity, even when navigating complex policy disagreements. Their commitment is to foster trust and address matters vital to the nation.

Senator Young emphasized that elected officials are sent to Washington to solve difficult problems, which inherently requires working with individuals who hold different perspectives. He suggested that the public expects problem-solving rather than mere influence peddling from their representatives.

The senators' message comes at a critical juncture as the nation prepares for its semiquincentennial, urging a return to the foundational principles of unity and courageous collaboration to navigate contemporary challenges.