It seems that in the face of utter unified opposition from the Republicans, caving has become a way of life for Congressional Democrats, and the White House. But apparently there very well may be limits...
"In effect, as they recognize, Democrats on Capitol Hill may be facing a double vise. Their own president is asking that they be willing to cut back entitlement programs. And there is a very real possibility that if Republicans hold tough on significant tax increases, the White House may be so hungry for a deal that Hill Democrats will be asked to accept that, too. That's two caves too many for a lot of Democrats....
"From afar, it appears that Obama is now operating on a different political calculus for 2012 than his congressional party. He needs to win over independents -- and a mega-deal reducing the deficits could be a huge plus for him. But congressional Democrats need to have a fired-up base, and that means not caving in on entitlements, especially when there is so little in return. Even if Obama is just posturing, talking big now so he gets credit for trying, his strategy is not a happy one for the left."
- CNN, How Obama deal on debt could hurt Democrats in 2012
Mr President, PLEASE don't negotiate for me.
I've been harsh on the Democrats in congress for lack of spine and general cluelessness. But I am becoming increasingly convinced that your attachment to bipartisan compromise is not only unfortunate, it's misguided. I've also mentioned that the democratic party has been unenthusiastic about having your back. But if you want them to follow, you had best LEAD. And that also means, you have to give your party something worth following. Caving to the Republicans, who haven't brought a thing to the table other than hot air and threats, does neither inspire party loyalty or confidence in your citizens that you've got our backs. It also sends the message that it's perfectly okay to cave to the demands of an extremist Right, even when it flies against both the majority wishes of the electorate, and political, financial and economic sense.
When you negotiate with the likes of John Boehner, I have a compulsive desire to check my wallet.