So we all know that the speaker of the house could have brought a vote on a clean continuing resolution weeks ago. All the evidence available suggested the votes were their to pass the bill. Yet, as we know Boehner refused to call for a vote due to people like Rafael "Ted" Cruz and the Tea Party members of the House. Now, my question is why did Boehner fear these folks? What penalty would Boehner have subjected himself to by simply allowing a vote? What am I missing here? What leverage did the far right wing have on the "moderate" speaker?
After all is said and done, Boehner's speakership is not in jeopardy so exactly what mechanical submission hold was JB attempting to maneuver out of? I honestly don't understand the rationale for him to call for a vote. What was the tea parties leverage here?