In an unconventional game of hide-and-seek, Oregon senators proved that they may not be the best players, losing more than just a game. On a 10-day walkout that began on May 3, the Republican and an Independent senator failed to make a strategic hideout plan, resulting in the triggering of a new constitutional provision. This provision bans lawmakers with 10 or more unexcused absences from being reelected, so these politicians, in a questionable attempt at tactical evasion, effectively removed themselves from office. As the walkout began, it quickly became evident that some of these senators were ill-prepared for the game. Allegedly, one senator was found hiding under a pile of coats in a Capitol building closet, while another was simply crouching behind a potted plant in the hallway. Even though they were not tagged by their opponents, their absences were noted and, ultimately, deemed unexcused. In an attempt to show their commitment to the game, hundreds of bills were put on hold, with consequences for the environment and the budget debate. Their drastic move was meant to demonstrate their dedication to what was, at first, just a friendly game of hide-and-seek. But the senators soon realized they may have taken the game too far. "We were really just trying to have some fun," said an anonymous senator, sheepishly, as they emerged from their hiding spots. "But I guess it's time to face the music. We all just wanted to break the monotony." The political ramifications of the walkout were clear: not only did the senators fail to secure a win in their game, but they also inadvertently endangered their own political careers. As they sheepishly emerged from their hiding spots and recognized the damage they had done, they realized that sometimes, playing games in the workplace may have higher stakes than anticipated.