The problem is that Dems have had control of all 3 (presidency, house of reps, and Senate) for only 4 years of the last 24 years. When you don't have all 3 you are forced to reach across the aisle.
*If you include Bill Clinton then it's 6 years of the last 32 years. If you include Bush senior and Reagan, then it's 6 years of the last 44 fucking years.